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Barcelona eye move for Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois
CHELSEA have received an enquiry from Barcelona for on-loan goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, according to reports in Spain.
Barca are weighing up their options for a long-term replacement for Victor Valdes, who is set to leave the Nou Camp on a free transfer at the end of the season.
And Spanish sports paper Marca claim that Courtois is the first-choice to replace Valdes, despite the on-loan Atletico Madrid stopper being contracted to the Blues until 2016.
The Spanish giants have already enquired about the 21-year-old, receiving positive feedback from the player's agent.
Chelsea want Courtois to sign fresh terms at Stamford Bridge, but the Belgium international is reportedly interested in a move to Barcelona.
The La Liga champions' initial target with German keeper Ter Stegen, who has turned down a new contract at Bundesliga outfit Borussia Monchengladbach.
However, now Barcelona consider Courtois a better option given his superior experience despite both players being aged 21.
Courtois has impressed on loan at Atletico over the past two seasons, and is set for another campaign at the Vicente Calderon this term.
Barca want just one keeper to compliment back-up Pinto in Gerardo Martino's squad, and will put pressure on Chelsea over the coming season to make their new number one Courtois.