A good goalkeeper is probably worth anything from 15 to 20pts a season and in many ways just as invaluable as a 25 goal a year striker. They are worth their weight in gold and if you have a good one then you need to do everything in your power to keep them.

It is why Conte shouldn’t hesitate to give Courtois the contract he wants – as the La Liga giants start to circle around him.

The Belgium star has been sensational since he replaced Petr Cech between the sticks making the transition absolutely seamless.

Not only a fantastic shot stopper, but his distribution and decision making is absolutely flawless – with Manchester United’s David De Gea probably the only one in the Premier League goalie that is on a par with him.

It is no wonder that Real Madrid, Barcelona and others within Europe’s elite are monitoring the contract standoff at Stamford Bridge.

Courtois’ reputation has always been good within Spain, following a successful two years on loan with Atletico Madrid under Diego Simeone’s stewardship.

It is well documented that Real Madrid are desperate for a long term replacement for Navas and with failed attempts to lure De Gea to the Bernabeu over the past two summers, they are reportedly looking at Courtois as the ideal alternative to step in.

Personally it amazes me that we let this situation get to this. Unlike some other Chelsea players there is no ego with the player or a chance of him sulking and causing issues when things doesn’t get their own way and therefore these are the players we should be looking after, rather than the other divas within our ranks.

With top keepers in short supply in world football – can we really afford not to pay the man what he wants? It is a no brainer as far as I am concerned.