Real Madrid are eyeing a Bosman move for Chelsea’s wantaway defender Antonio Rudiger next summer.
According to Marca, as relayed by Fichajes, Real Madrid are ready to step up their pursuit of Antonio Rudiger. The Spanish giants are convinced they can sign the Chelsea defender on a free transfer next summer, as the player’s current contract at Stamford Bridge expires at the end of the season.
Rudiger has been a part of the Chelsea team since 2017 when he joined the club from AS Roma. While the German was largely overlooked at Stamford Bridge under Frank Lampard, his immense success under Thomas Tuchel has transformed into one of the best centre-backs in Europe.
The former Dortmund youth product, after all, had played a key role in helping Chelsea win the UEFA Champions League last season. He has also established a solid defensive partnership alongside Thiago Silva and Andreas Christensen, thus helping the Blues emerge as one of the main contenders to win the Premier League title.
However, it appears Rudiger is unhappy at Chelsea, as they have not met his demands over a new contract. The reigning European champions are unwilling to meet the hefty terms, which has led to speculation over his future at Stamford Bridge.
Rudiger’s precarious situation has not gone unnoticed either, with the German being courted by a host of clubs across Europe. Manchester United and Tottenham are the two Premier League clubs keen on his services, while Bayern Munich are prepared to bring him back to the Bundesliga.
But it is Real Madrid who are reportedly leading the chase to sign the former Stuttgart centre-back. The Spanish giants believe they can put forth attractive terms that will help them lure the Chelsea defender to Santiago Bernabeu.
The record European champions were hit hard by the summer departures of both Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane. Coach Carlo Ancelotti is lacking a proper and reliable alternative for Eder Militao and David Alaba, and that is where Rudiger comes into the fray.
With 169 competitive appearances for Chelsea, the 28-year-old brings a wealth of experience at the highest level of football. He can also bring the winning mentality to the team, while his leadership could be vital in helping Los Blancos build a solid defensive core in the coming years.
However, Real Madrid still have a long way to go before they can convince Rudiger to join the Bernabeu next season. Given the quality of the player, Chelsea will be determined to keep hold of him, perhaps even by offering him improved terms. Other suitors like Bayern, Barcelona and even Liverpool are sure to make waves as well, in the race to sign the German international next summer.
