With Chelsea talks set, Courtois reiterates his ‘heart is in Madrid’

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has reiterated that his 'heart is in Madrid' despite talks set to begin over a contract renewal at Stamford Bridge.

Courtois, 25, also hinted at a return to Spain — where he played with Atletico Madrid on loan for three seasons — in December and again mentioned his desire to be closer to his two young children who live in the Spanish capital with his ex-girlfriend.

'My personal situation is related to the city of Madrid,' Courtois told Belgian outlet Sport/Foot Magazine.

'My two children live there with their mum. I have my daughter every day on FaceTime. She often tells me that she misses me. My son is still too small to communicate like that.

'Whenever I have the opportunity, I try to return to Spain. As a situation, it is not always easy. Yes, my heart is in Madrid. It is logical and understandable.'

The Belgium international has been linked with Real Madrid in recent transfer windows, but said the club never made a move for him as far as he knew.

Courtois said: 'If they [Real Madrid] want me, they have to contact Chelsea. We'll see. But they have not done that. What is certain is that one day I will return to Madrid. I love Spain, I love the city, I spent three wonderful years there. It is there that I became an adult.

'Atletico was a real group of friends. We went out together and my teammates taught me a language I did not know at all when I arrived. When I left, I cried. My first days in London were not easy. England, when I arrived, was colder, more business. Now, I feel very good here.

'I understand that the rumours are coming back today, as we are talking about a new goalkeeper there [at Madrid]. But I do not pay much attention to that, I stay focused on Chelsea.

'If Real are really interested, my personal situation could influence things. The family aspect is priceless. But I repeat to you that, for the moment, I'm busy talking to Chelsea to extend.'

Source: www.espnfc.com