Thibaut Courtois's father: "Barca were never an option"

The father of Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has insisted that his son has never shown an interest in joining Barcelona.

The 21-year-old, who is on loan at the La Liga club from Chelsea, has been linked with a move to the Catalan giants after his impressive form over the past two seasons.

Reports, however, suggest that Barca have made a move for Borussia Monchengladbach's Marc-Andre ter Stegen as a replacement for Victor Valdes, although Thierry Courtois has said that his son is only thinking of Atletico and Chelsea.

"Thibaut isn't disappointed Barca have moved for Ter Stegen," he told Het Nieuwsblad. "Barca were never an option.

"Thibaut is on loan at Atletico until June 30. Only two clubs are important to him - Chelsea and Atletico Madrid - but we'll obviously discuss his future with Chelsea first."

"There will be no talks with Chelsea over the next few days to discuss Courtois' future. The only thing they know is that he wants to be first-choice next season, wherever he plays."

Courtois has made 25 appearances in all competitions for Atletico this season.