Chelsea duo set to stay but Rudiger moves closer to exit

Real Madrid are closing in on a deal to sign Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger, according to The Guardian.

Rudiger has been linked with a return to his native Germany with a move to Bayern Munich, but it appears that he could end up in Spain.

The centre-back’s contract expires in the summer and he has so far not signed a new deal at Stamford Bridge.

He could therefore leave on a free transfer at the end of the season – and can negotiate with European clubs in January.

Andreas Christensen and Thiago Silva, also in the final months of their contracts, are set to re-sign. But Rudiger looks increasingly likely to move on.

The Guardian reports that there has been no fall-out between Rudiger and Chelsea and that both parties are keen to keep things as cordial as possible.

That tallies with comments by Blues boss Thomas Tuchel, who has insisted he has no doubt that Rudiger will give his all to Chelsea despite the uncertainty over his future.

Speaking at a recent press conference, Tuchel said: “It does not affect his mentality. It does not affect his quality and it does absolutely not affect his behaviour. He is fully committed to Chelsea right now.

“He is a big competitor and he is in exactly the right spot. He is in the most competitive league, he is at a club where he really matters and that suits him perfectly.

“So let’s be patient and hopefully we have a good ending.”