There are several positions that Real Madrid need to strengthen at in the future and where they are lacking in depth and options. Goalkeeper is not one of them though. Thibaut Courtois has been in stunning form this season, despite the defence in front of him disappointing on numerous occasions. Without him between the posts, Los Blancos could have been in a much worse situation than just three points behind Barcelona.
His cover option, Andriy Lunin, is very highly rated as well, and has done well whenever he has gotten minutes. Unfortunately though, it is quite understandable why he does not get chances often. Not many, if any, goalkeepers would ahead of Courtois on current form.
Now 23 years of age, Lunin might be on his way out next summer, as it looks like Real Madrid might have to bring in a new goalkeeper to provide cover to Courtois.
As reported by Relevo, Real Madrid has Lunin until June, and does not contemplate his departure this month. But they are already looking for a second goalkeeper for next season in case the academy players do not take a step forward. The departure of Ancelotti seems the only way for the 23-year-old to exhaust his contract.
Real Madrid could replace 23-year-old next summer
Lunin’s current deal with Real Madrid is believed to run till the summer of 2024, but the goalkeeper might have to leave a year earlier.
There has never been a lack of interest in his signature and rumours suggested that he was wanted by Ajax in January as well, but Lunin decided to stay on at Santiago Bernabeu.
While there is no doubt about Lunin’s potential, it seems almost impossible that he would have a regular place in Real Madrid’s starting XI anytime soon ahead of Courtois, who is in the middle of his prime and most probably the best goalkeeper in the world right now.