Real Madrid have yet to receive final approval from the 25-year-old for a new contract

In the coming weeks, Real Madrid hope to conclude another crucial contract deal, that of Andriy Lunin. The 25-year-old has had an excellent season, having stepped up in the absence of Thibaut Courtois, who made his first appearance of the campaign only during Saturday's victory over Cadiz.

Lunin will have a fight on his hands to hold onto top spot for the rest of the season, although he will be in goal for Wednesday's Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich.

Real Madrid are very keen to extend Lunin's contract, which is due to expire next summer. An agreement is close, but as Fabrizio Romano said The Daily BriefingSome details still need to be worked out before everything can be finalized.

“We already said last month that Real Madrid was preparing a contract proposal, everything was ready to be sent to the player… Now, they have presented a new deal proposal for Andriy Lunin that has also been shared with the new agent of the player, the super agent Jorge Mendes.

“They want to extend his contract – his current agreement expires in the summer of 25 – as they believe that Lunin can be part of the future of the club. It is up to the player to give the final green light, but Real Madrid wants to put it into action.”

The reason for the delay is unknown, but it could be to do with the return of Courtois to the Real Madrid installation after injury. The Belgian is expected to be the first “porter” for next season, and given that Lunin wants to be a holder himself, it could cause complications. For now, everything seems calm, despite its delay.