Antonio Rudiger is reportedly edging closer to joining Real Madrid or Bayern Munich.
The Blues have offered the German a new deal, but have so far been unable to reach an agreement with his representatives
The German centre-back has been pivotal to the Blues’ recent success under Thomas Tuchel but is no closer to agreeing a deal to extend his stay at Stamford Bridge beyond June 2022.
PORTO, PORTUGAL – MAY 29: Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea celebrates with the Champions League Trophy during the UEFA Champions League Final between Manchester City and Chelsea FC at Estadio do Dragao on May 29, 2021 in Porto, Portugal. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
According to The Independent, Chelsea is reluctant to match his wage demands which allows him to sign a pre-contract agreement with a foreign club from January ahead of a free transfer next summer.
He is represented by his brother Sahr Senesie, with the report stating that he met with Real Madrid in recent weeks.
Though Madrid are now leading the race for Rudiger, Senesie is also understood to have held discussions with Bayern Munich.
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The Bundesliga giants are said to be ‘hopeful’ of challenging Los Blancos for his signature, with both clubs having offered significantly more than Chelsea.
Speaking in September, Bayern manager Julian Nagelsmann insisted he hasn’t discussed signing Rudiger with sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic.
“I haven’t spoken to Brazzo [Salihamidzic] about it and if I did, I wouldn’t tell you either,” the German coach told reporters
“I just read that in the media as well. I’ll have to see when the contract expires and then I’ll see if I still have money in my wallet.”
If he does move on as expected, it would be a hammer blow to Tuchel, who has made it clear that he wants Rudiger to stay at Stamford Bridge.
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 19: Antonio Ruediger of Chelsea celebrates after scoring their side’s third goal during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on September 19, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
” We want him to stay, this is very clear and he knows it. But sometimes in these situations, there is a certain delay and, obviously, there is a delay in these talks and his decision.
“It can happen these days but it does not affect his mentality, it doesn’t affect his quality, it doesn’t affect his behaviour.
“He is fully committed to Chelsea right now and I am absolutely sure he feels the trust, respect and love from the club and spectators.
Should Chelsea offer him anything he wants or find a young replacement? Let’s have your view.