According to a report by Madrid Universal on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Real Madrid have reportedly identified Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen as a possible replacement for Thibaut Courtois as the Spanish club begins planning for the future of its goalkeeping department.

The 24-year-old Netherlands international has attracted attention from Real Madrid because of his performances in the Premier League. The club are reportedly considering him a suitable long-term option as they prepare for the possibility of Courtois eventually leaving the Santiago Bernabéu.

Despite the interest in Verbruggen, Courtois remains an important figure at Real Madrid. The 34-year-old Belgian goalkeeper continues to deliver impressive performances and is still regarded as one of the leading players in his position.

Courtois has made 15 appearances across all competitions this season, recording four clean sheets while conceding 16 goals. His experience and performances have continued to make him an important part of the team's plans.

His current contract is due to expire in 2027, although Real Madrid are reportedly considering offering him a one-year extension. The proposed agreement would allow the club to retain his services while gradually preparing for a future without the experienced goalkeeper.

However, Madrid are understood to be looking beyond the immediate situation. Rather than waiting until Courtois approaches the end of his career, the club reportedly want to identify a younger goalkeeper who can eventually take over the position.

Verbruggen has emerged as an attractive option because of his physical attributes, consistency and ability to contribute to his team's build-up play. These qualities reportedly make him a strong candidate for the goalkeeping role at the Spanish giants.

Nevertheless, completing a transfer could prove difficult for Real Madrid. Brighton consider the Dutch international an important member of their squad and are reportedly reluctant to lose a player who remains central to their long-term sporting plans.

Verbruggen's contractual situation could, however, become an important factor in any potential negotiations. His agreement with Brighton runs until 2028, meaning he would enter the final year of his contract at the end of the 2026/27 season if he does not sign an extension.

This could give Real Madrid an opportunity to negotiate a transfer during the summer of 2027, particularly if Brighton become concerned about the possibility of losing him without receiving a transfer fee.

For now, there is no confirmed agreement between Real Madrid and Brighton over the goalkeeper. However, the reported interest in Verbruggen suggests that the Spanish club are already considering their options for the period after Courtois.