According to reports in The Telegraph, Chelsea have offered goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois a contract that would make him the best-paid goalkeeper in the world, and are confident that the Belgian will commit his future to the club.

What's the word, then?

Well, The Telegraph says the Blues are concentrating their efforts in the New Year to keeping the 25-year-old at Stamford Bridge, and the stopper could potentially earn, including bonuses, more than the £200,000-a-week David De Gea is on at Manchester United if he signs a new long-term deal.

The Telegraph says that the Belgium international had been keen on a return to Spain as that is where is two young children live, but Real Madrid's interest in Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has increased hope that Courtois will now stay in west London.

The report adds that while the goalkeeper was previously happy to wait until the end of the season to discuss his future, the club are hoping further talks will take place in the next couple of weeks.

How has Courtois done this season?

He has been very good and consistent, as he has generally been during his time as Chelsea's first-choice stopper.

The 25-year-old has made 25 appearances in all competitions, conceding 23 goals and keeping eight clean sheets in the process, while the Blues' record of letting in 14 goals in 18 Premier League games this term mean that Antonio Conte's side have one of the best defensive records in the English top flight.

How much of a statement would it be if he signed on?

It would be a huge statement.

Having already played 133 matches for Chelsea, 154 for Atletico Madrid and with 55 caps for Belgium, Courtois has already established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world right now.

It certainly wouldn't be easy for the Blues to find a suitable replacement who is as good, with the Belgian having the ability and potential to go on to be Chelsea's first-choice stopper for at least the next five years.

If the 25-year-old does choose to stay at Stamford Bridge, it could also persuade the likes of Eden Hazard, who is also in talks over a new contract, to remain in west London too.

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