Transfer News: Antonio Rudiger determined to leave Chelsea for Real Madrid
According to Spanish outlet Marca (h/t The Express), Chelsea defensive ace Antonio Rudiger looks set to leave the club for Real Madrid in the summer of 2022.
The 28-year-old is currently in the final year of his contract and is yet to pen fresh terms. Los Blancos could be about to land themselves a world-class player for free next year.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side is in a state of refit and is looking to rebuild for the future. Having lost both Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos in the same summer, they are in need of a reliable new centre-back pairing.
Real already took advantage of free agency to land David Alaba from Bayern Munich last summer. Bringing in Rudiger will help them establish a new defensive duo in the prime of their career.
Rudiger’s potential exit is a massive blow for Chelsea. The German ace has looked like a player reborn under Thomas Tuchel and is amongst the first names on the teamsheet when fit.
With Thiago Silva not getting any younger and Andreas Christensen debated a level below, Rudiger’s loss could be a massive blow for the Blues. Not only will they have to bring in a replacement but also integrate him into Tuchel’s well-drilled system.
There are still some months to go before the club may have to face such an eventuality. With Rudiger free to discuss terms with foreign clubs from January 1, there is little time to waste.
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Rudiger missed Chelsea’s win over Brentford last weekend after arriving injured from the German camp. His absence was visible as Thomas Frank’s side laid siege to the Blues goal. His return to the lineup cannot occur sooner.