No one is untouchable at Real Madrid. Florentino Pérez has made it clear that, every season, his goal is to maintain a competitive squad with young blood. With this policy, the club seeks to avoid situations like those experienced by Barcelona in recent years, with an aging squad and few alternatives to renew key positions. Under this premise, Madrid doesn't let down its guard regarding possible transfers, and the goalkeeper position is no exception.
Thibaut Courtois' injury last season was a warning. His absence left the Merengues without one of their most important players and, although Courtois has returned to the field, minor recent discomforts have set off alarm bells.
Andriy Lunin, who should be his natural successor, doesn't seem to have the necessary confidence of the coaching staff. His irregular performances have led the club to look for alternatives. Florentino Pérez is determined to reinforce this position with a young goalkeeper with a future.
Jude Bellingham's executioner, new goalkeeper?
A name has appeared on Real Madrid's radar: Lucas Chevalier. This young 22-year-old goalkeeper, who currently plays for Lille, has caught the attention of the Madrid directors. They will surely remember his outstanding performance in the Champions League against Real Madrid, a match in which Lille won 1-0.
Jude Bellingham, who was present at the ground, experienced Chevalier's quality up close and recognized his solidity between the posts. With seven clean sheets this season, the Frenchman has shown a confidence that few goalkeepers of his age possess.
Chevalier is not only shining in Ligue 1, but has already proven himself reliable in European competitions. His contract with Lille keeps him tied until 2027, which ensures stability in his current team. However, Real Madrid are aware that, with a fee of around 30 million euros, they could negotiate his transfer. Florentino and his team believe that this young goalkeeper would fit into the white project in the long term, both as competition for Courtois and with a view to being his heir.
Florentino sees him as the best bet on the market
Lunin's situation also influences this possible operation. Despite recently renewing his contract, the Ukrainian goalkeeper is clear that he wants to leave Real Madrid. He doesn't feel comfortable being Courtois's understudy and would prefer to find a team where he has more of a role. This situation paves the way for Chevalier, who would be the ideal option to strengthen the squad without breaking with the philosophy of maintaining balance in the dressing room.
For Real Madrid, Chevalier represents a plan for the future. In a league as demanding as the Spanish one, having two goalkeepers of quality is crucial to face national and European competitions. At 22 years old, the Frenchman has a long way to go and the necessary potential to adapt and grow in Spanish soccer. Now, the club is waiting to make a final decision in the next transfer windows.
In conclusion, Real Madrid remains faithful to its strategy of continuous renewal. Florentino Pérez and his team are keeping an eye on the market and possible transfers to ensure that the club remains competitive. With their eyes set on Chevalier, the future of the white goalkeeper could be in good hands.