Atletico Set To Sign Replacement for Chelsea Keeper Courtois

Thibaut Courtois' return to Chelsea next season looks all but done after several reports in Spain claimed Atletico Madrid are on the verge to completing the signing of Benfica youngster Jan Oblak as his replacement.

The La Liga winners had already completed the signing of keeper Miguel Angel Moya from Getafe earlier last month – a clear sign that they have already accepted Courtois' departure.

Diego Simeone's side have made every effort to prolong the Chelsea star's spell in La Liga but Jose Mourinho himself recently revealed his intentions to have him back at Stamford Bridge.

"When the World Cup in Brazil is over, Courtois will be coming straight back to Stamford Bridge – end of story," Mourinho said.

Spanish newspapers As and Marca both now report the La Liga winners are set to complete the signing of Oblak for around €16m - and the deal could be announced before the end of the week.

The 21-year has garnered a reputation as one of the most talented young stoppers to emerge from European football in recent years - and had attracted attention from Atletico's city rivals Real, as well as Italian giants Juventus.

With Courtois' return now all-but-guaranteed, sources close to Stamford Bridge claim Mourinho is ready to sacrifice Petr Cech to make way for him.

Chelsea have already confirmed Mark Schwarzer has signed a new one-year contract at Stamford Bridge to remain as Chelsea's back-up keeper next season.