Chelsea's Belgian Youngster Responds To Barcelona Rumours

Thibaut Courtois has insisted he is happy at Chelsea despite leaving the club on loan for a third consecutive season, insisting that he wants to get more game experience in preparation for the World Cup.

After the Blues sent Courtois back to Atletico Madrid for a third time, there has been a suggestion that Barcelona might be ready to tempt the 21 year old into a move to the Spanish champions as a replacement for the outgoing Victor Valdes.

But the Belgium international, who currently holds the number one keeping spot for his country, insists that he is happy with his situation at Chelsea and only chose not to return to the club this summer because he wants to make sure of his selection for the World Cup.

"The club (Chelsea) and Jose Mourinho wanted me back for this season and also considered the option of sending me out to a team in the Premier League," he said, according to the Standard.

"But I was not interested in this option, I feel good in Madrid and wanted to play in the Champions League with Atletico. I was not afraid of fighting for a spot with Petr Cech. I have no fear of anyone, I believe in my qualities.

"I could have gone (back to Chelsea) and it may have worked out perfectly, but then again I may not have been playing and could have risked losing my starting place with the national team. It would have been a risk for the World Cup.

"Next year? I can afford to take more risks. But for now, the important thing for me as a young player is to reach a higher level."

Spanish paper Marca has reported that Chelsea are keen to strike a new deal with Courtois but the stopper is holding out because of the interest from Barcelona.

The La Liga title holders could offer the young star more game time in the event of Valdes leaving the club, with Petr Cech firmly entrenched in the starting line up with the Blues.

But from his comments it appears more likely that Courtois will stay at Chelsea and look to challenge Cech for the number one shirt.