Real Madrid weigh Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen for life after Courtois

Real Madrid are planning for the future of their goalkeeping position and have identified Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen as a possible long-term successor to Thibaut Courtois.

The 24-year-old Netherlands international has attracted attention through his performances in the Premier League and for his displays with Brighton and the Netherlands national team.

Sport Bild, citing journalist Ben Fernandez Santos, reported that Real Madrid are monitoring Verbruggen’s progress as they assess their options for the years ahead. The goalkeeper has established himself as an important member of Brighton’s squad despite his relatively young age, while also gaining international experience.

Verbruggen produced an impressive performance in Brighton’s recent meeting with Manchester City, keeping a clean sheet as his side secured a 1-0 away victory.

His contract situation could also make him an attractive option for Real Madrid. Verbruggen’s current deal with Brighton runs until 2028, the same year in which Courtois’ contract is expected to end if the Belgian completes a proposed extension.

Real Madrid’s interest in Verbruggen does not indicate that Courtois is about to leave the club. The 34-year-old is expected to extend his contract until 2028, when he would be 36, giving the Spanish club time to plan for the next stage of its goalkeeping department without needing to rush into a decision.

Verbruggen is not the only goalkeeper to have been linked with Real Madrid in recent months. The club has also been associated with Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa, France Under-21 goalkeeper Guillaume Restes, Italy international Gianluigi Donnarumma, Luca Brugmans and Spain goalkeeper David Raya.

However, it remains unclear whether Real Madrid’s interest in Verbruggen will develop into a formal attempt to sign him. For now, his name has been added to the list of possibilities being considered by the club as it prepares for the eventual end of Courtois’ time at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The fixture listings accompanying the report include AEK Athens in the Champions League on 04 November 2026, Real Madrid against Getafe, and Brighton in the Conference League on 05 November 2026.