Report: 28-year-old Chelsea ace on Real Madrid’s five-man transfer shortlist

Transfer News: Chelsea ace Antonio Rudiger shortlisted by Real Madrid

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes (h/t The Express), Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger has been put on a five-man shortlist by Real Madrid amongst possible options for a centre-back signing.

The 28-year-old has played a massive role at the West London club since he arrived in 2017. The German was a part of the club’s FA Cup and Europa League success in 2018 and 2019 respectively. However, his performances have notched up a level since Thomas Tuchel’s arrival.

The centre-back has gone to play a huge role in the club’s UEFA Champions League and UEFA Super Cup success. Rudiger also helped the Blues keep their 6th clean sheet of this season against Tottenham on the weekend while he also scored his first goal of the season. 

Antonio Rudiger could leave Chelsea on a free transfer next summer. (imago Images)
Antonio Rudiger could leave Chelsea on a free transfer next summer. (imago Images)

However, it remains to be seen how long the German stays at the club as his contract will expire next summer. An extension has not been agreed yet between the club and the player, and Real Madrid have now apparently put the defender on a five-man shortlist for potential moves next summer, according to Fichajes (h/t The Express).

Although Matthias Ginter, Milan Skriniar, Pau Torres, and Marquinhos are also on the list, it is understood that Rudiger is the ‘biggest bargain’ out of all the centre-backs as he would be available on a free transfer.

Real Madrid have placed Rudiger on their five-man shortlist of centre-backs next summer. (imago Images)
Real Madrid have placed Rudiger on their five-man shortlist of centre-backs next summer. (imago Images)

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While it would be a big loss for the Blues, it would not pose a large problem for Tuchel. Trevoh Chalobah has made the step up to the senior team while the club have also been linked with Matthijs de Ligt recently. 

Ideally, the Stamford Bridge outfit could want to retain the services of the German but it remains to be seen what decision the centre-back makes next summer.