Chelsea Transfer News: Thibaut Courtois Explains Spain Return Talk, Top Rumours

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has opened up on his comments that he hoped to return to Spain at some point in the future and explained that he is happy at Stamford Bridge. 

Per the MailOnline's Pete South, he said: "I understand the commotion with the Chelsea fans. But I just meant that I want to return to Spain one day, but it can also be after my career. I'm happy to be at Chelsea. For how long, we will see. But now I want to win prizes with this club."

According to South, in September the Belgian spoke of his love for the country—where he spent three years on loan at Atletico Madrid—and desire to go back there: "When I left Spain I had it very clear in my mind that I would return one day. I have a contract with Chelsea for three more seasons. In 2018, when I begin my last season, I will have to evaluate if it's better to renew or to leave."

ESPN FC's Liam Twomey believed his attempt to clarify the comments did little to play down the talk of him leaving:

Indeed, Courtois' remarks will likely do little to reassure Blues fans, though based on his form so far this season some of them might welcome his departure.

The Belgian has performed well below his capabilities this year and prior to the weekend's 2-0 win over Hull City—just Chelsea's second clean sheet of the campaign—he had saved only 47.1 per cent of the shots on target he'd faced this year, the lowest of any 'keeper in the league, according to the MailOnline's James Dutton.

GianlucaDiMarzio's Joseph Musker has not been impressed:

"

Thought Conte knew how to set up a defence? Welcome to England! Chelsea poor at the back and for all the hype I'm not convinced by Courtois.

— Joseph Musker (@Musker_LFC) September 24, 2016"

If Courtois fails to rediscover his form, a return to Spain could reignite his career. Should he resume his status as a world-class stopper while still at Stamford Bridge, the Blues will need to be wary of approaches from La Liga's more illustrious outfits.

MARCO BERTORELLO/Getty Images

It's possible manager Antonio Conte is already preparing for his departure—according to Goal, the Italian took in Torino's game with Fiorentina on Sunday and could have been there to scout on-loan Manchester City 'keeper Joe Hart.

According to football writer Paolo Bandini, Hart has already made early strides to settle in Turin:

Aside from a shaky debut, he has enjoyed a strong start to life on the pitch as he looks to rebuild his own form.

While it seems as though he's set for a positive year with Torino, Chelsea would be far better equipped to meet his wage demands as well as offer him a much stronger possibility of winning silverware and playing UEFA Champions League football.

If City are prepared to let him move to a title rival, he may well opt for Stamford Bridge when he returns from his loan spell next summer.