Antonio Rudiger, a centre-back for Chelsea, is said to be in advanced discussions with Real Madrid.
From January onwards, the Germany international’s contract at Stamford Bridge will end in the summer of 2022, and he will be free to arrange pre-contract deals with other teams.
Real Madrid has been heavily connected with a move for Rudiger, who is also said to be on the radar of Bayern Munich and Roma, after the exits of Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane.
Pedro Almeida, a transfer analyst, has now delivered a blow to Chelsea’s chances of a renewal, writing on social media: “Negotiations between Real Madrid and António Rudiger are now in progress. Chelsea has not given up hope of extending the German’s contract.”
Los Blancos are reportedly prepared to sell up to four players to bankroll a move for Rudiger, whose pay demands are said to be causing a stumbling block in contract negotiations with Chelsea.
The 28-year-old has started all 10 Premier League games this season and has won the Champions League, Europa League, and FA Cup while at the Blues.