Chelsea have reportedly decided to end negotiations regarding a new contract with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The Belgium international has just 12 months remaining on his existing deal and has made no secret of a desire to return to Spain, where he has previously represented Atletico Madrid.
Reports have suggested that Chelsea remained hopeful of extending the 26-year-old's stay at Stamford Bridge but would be prepared to allow Courtois to leave on a free transfer next summer.
However, according to Sky Sports News, talks between the two parties have now come to an end, with Chelsea seemingly accepting that an agreement will not be reached with the player.
Chelsea could now invite offers for Courtois - with Real Madrid known to hold an interest - with the Blues needing to identify a potential long-term replacement for a goalkeeper who has made 154 appearances since 2014.
A report has indicated that Chelsea could join the race to sign Alisson from Roma.
Darren Plant
