Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger has reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Spanish giants Real Madrid over a summer move.
The German international’s current deal with the London club expires at the end of the current campaign, and with no new deal in sight, will thus leave the club.
Thomas Tuchel confirmed on Sunday the 29-year-old had privately told him he wanted to leave amid reports he had rejected Chelsea’s latest offer of over £200k-per-week.
“The situation is that he wants to leave the club. He informed me of this in a private talk,” confirmed Tuchel after Chelsea’s 1-0 win over West Ham.
“We gave everything – me and the club – but we could not fight anymore because of the actions. Without the sanctions we would at least be able to carry on fighting, but our hands are tied. We don’t take it personally. It is his decision.
Reports on Monday have now indicated the defender is close to joining Real Madrid on a free transfer.
The agreement between Toni Rüdiger and Real Madrid has been reached on a four year deal, valid until June 2026. ⚪️? #RealMadrid
It’s matter of final details before signing the contracts. No official announcement before the end of the season, even if Toni will sign in May. pic.twitter.com/gnTAv6GYr3
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 25, 2022
Rudiger arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2017 from AS Roma on a five-year contract and has won five titles during that period including the Champions League.
