Transfer News: Barcelona lead Real Madrid in the race to sign Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger. (Image: via OneFootball licensed images)
According to The Telegraph (Subscription Required), Real Madrid players have already got the signs that Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger will join them for free next summer.
The German international has developed into one of the best defenders in the world at Stamford Bridge. Rudiger has been the heart and soul of Chelsea’s defence since Thomas Tuchel took over from Frank Lampard earlier this year. The 28-year-old has played a leader’s role in the backline and helped the Blues overcome several challenges.
Rudiger has made 23 appearances for Thomas Tuchel’s team in this campaign. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, he has refused to let his guard down and remains a reliable performer.
Rudiger’s importance in the Chelsea squad is evident. Even though the former Roma man revealed that his first priority is to remain with Chelsea, he is currently closing in on the move to Real Madrid. Now, it is believed that players in the Los Blancos dressing room understand that the Blues defender is set to join Carlo Ancelotti’s squad in the summer for free.
Rudiger is familiar with Los Blancos stars player Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois as they earlier shared the dressing room at Chelsea. It seems both Belgian players have already given an excellent preview of life in Madrid to the German international.
Chelsea are in an awkward spot regarding the renewal of contracts of their best defenders. Rudiger has already rejected an offer of a £140,000-a-week contract from the Blues camp and is eyeing a pay of double that amount. As things stand, Chelsea have not yet met the player’s demands.
Fellow Blues defender, Andreas Christensen has also rejected two offers from the Chelsea board. With Cesar Azpilicueta and Thiago Silva also in a similar boat, the club could lose four experienced deenders for free next summer.
Therefore at this moment, losing Rudiger would be a massive blow to Thomas Tuchel’s long term plans. However, at this moment, his exit seems the most likely outcome. If that comes to pass, Marina Granovskaia’s board will have a bust summer ahead of them as they look to bring in reinforcements.
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