According to a report by Madrid Universal on Sunday November 1, 2026, the Spanish giants Real Madrid are reportedly looking at goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen of Brighton and Hove Albion as a possible long-term replacement for Thibaut Courtois.

With dependable performances and an established reputation as one of the world's most dependable goalkeepers, Courtois has been an exceptional performer for Los Blancos throughout the years. But Madrid is naturally thinking about what to do with the Belgian now that he is 34 years old.

Journalist Ben Fernandes Santos claims that the European powerhouses are keeping a careful eye on the 24-year-old Dutch international's development at Brighton, where he has made quite an impression in the Premier League.

In a recent match at the Etihad Stadium, Brighton won impressively against Manchester City thanks to a sensational performance from goalkeeper Jan Venegas, who made seven saves.

His impressive performance brought even more attention to his development under Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler and solidified his reputation as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in Europe.

Verbruggen joined Brighton from Anderlecht in 2023 and has since become the first choice goalkeeper for the club and has also become an integral part of the Dutch national team.

His ability to distribute the ball accurately, cool head under pressure, and lightning reflexes make him a desirable prospect for clubs looking for a modern goalkeeper who can do more than just stop shots.

Madrid is reportedly keeping tabs on the Dutchman's development and potential as they think about their goalkeeping strategy for the future.

Regardless, Courtois is still without a doubt Mourinho's first choice goalkeeper. Reportedly, talks are underway to extend the Belgian's current contract, which runs until 2027.

Assuming Courtois continues to play to his usual high level, Madrid will have a hard time finding a suitable replacement for him. But the club could save a lot of hassle when the time comes if it starts looking for possible successors now.

Finding a competent goalkeeper is not enough to replace Courtois. Someone who can keep a cool head under pressure in big games and consistently perform at a high level would be ideal for Madrid.

Even though he might still have room to improve as a player before being considered as a suitable successor, Verbruggen has plenty of time to continue developing at the age of 24.

The biggest clubs in Europe could take a keener interest in him if he keeps up his impressive form.

Even though it's unclear if Verbruggen will ever become Madrid's starting goalkeeper, the Spanish giants are paying close attention to the Brighton goalkeeper as they plan for the future.