Rudiger reportedly on his way to Real Madrid next summer

Antonio Rudiger has become a force to be reckoned with at Chelsea. From a humble start, the German international has become one of the finest defenders in the game. The FIFA Confederations Cup winner joined Chelsea from Roma in 2017, and amid a tumultuous start to life in the Premier League, he has established himself as a top defender.

Thomas Tuchel has had to count on his experience and no-nonsense approach to steady the defence at Chelsea. Things are, however, beginning to unravel as Rudiger is yet to agree to a contract extension with the 28-year-old defender.

Rudiger problems for Chelsea

Thomas Tuchel has a problem on his hands, and with the year winding to a close, the window to resolve it is slimming. The German gaffer has a few players in the final year of their contracts, and Chelsea have a battle trying to convince them to remain at the club.

Amongst the players who are about to leave for free is German international defender Antonio Rudiger. The 28-year-old has less than seven months to the expiration of his Chelsea contract. Talks over a contract extension have not progressed well.

It was a torrid time for the German under former manager Frank Lampard, but the arrival of Thomas Tuchel has re-established him as a top defender. The German gaffer gave Rudiger a new lease of life, and he has blossomed in a three-man defence. The German defender was integral to Chelsea’s Champions League triumph last season.

Chelsea has just under a month to resolve the impasse, with the vultures already circling. The London club has to make Rudiger an offer he can’t refuse.

Real Madrid have already made their move

A player of Rudiger’s quality cannot be short of suitors. It is no wonder his contract situation is of interest to several parties. Reports suggest that an informal agreement is already in place. It will see the German defender swap blue for white.

Contract talks with Chelsea haven’t progressed smoothly, much to the delight of the Madrid club. Real Madrid is understood to have made tempting offers to Rudiger, who is keen on a new adventure. Except he has a change of heart, Chelsea is resigned to losing him for free in the summer.

The Independent reports that Real Madrid is ahead of the queue to land Rudiger’s signature. The report suggests that his brother and agent Sahr Senesie has an informal agreement to take Rudiger to Spain.

Real Madrid are not alone in the race

Under the Bosman ruling, Rudiger could discuss with any club from January 1, but Senesie met with Madrid chiefs a few weeks ago to thrash out a potential deal.

Real Madrid want to fortify their defence ahead of next season and see Rudiger as anal target. However, they will have to fend off interest from Bayern Munich, who have also met with Senesie.

Reports also suggest that Manchester United and Tottenham are keen to land the defender, but Rudiger prefers a move abroad.