Real Madrid have been in talks with Antonio Rudiger for a while now.
Now, as per Fabrizio Romano, Los Blancos are ready to incorporate Rudiger into their setup for the next term. Romano also reports that the German defender has agreed on a long-term deal with the former La Liga champions.
Rudiger, 29, has seen his career come back to life under Thomas Tuchel. That said, Chelsea do want to keep Rudiger but their current financial state will not allow them to. Not yet anyway. It could be a few more weeks to months before the Blues are in a position to offer new contracts to their players.
Romano also reported that Madrid have offered a four-year contract to the 29-year-old. Rudiger’s wage demands also seem to be met with ease, as Los Blancos look keen on building a super team for next term. Of course, spearheading their project will be Kylian Mbappe.
An official announcement, however, is still due in the case of Rudiger and a deal is yet to be agreed with Mbappe.
Barcelona and Manchester United were also in the running for Rudiger’s signature. But, Barca’s financial state means that they could not afford his wages and Rudiger turned down a high-value contract from United out of respect for Chelsea.
A good fit for Madrid?
Madrid signed David Alaba on a free transfer as well. We can see that the move worked wonders for both, Alaba and Madrid.
Rudiger is a tall, quick, and imposing figure on the pitch. He can be the perfect partner for Eder Militao. This would, in turn, allow, Madrid to play Alaba as the LB.
Rudiger is one of the fastest players in the Premier League, if not the fastest. His ball-playing skills have also improved under Tuchel and he is currently one of the best ball-playing defenders on the planet. Not to forget, his tall stature also allows him to win those aerial duels and a difficult man to mark in the opposition’s box while defending set-pieces.
All in all, Rudiger has shown that he has the profile necessary to succeed in Madrid. Moreover, for a team that relies a lot on pace, Rudiger is a welcome addition.
On a free deal, The Whites cannot get anyone better than Rudiger. Strengthening the defense for the next term was one of the priorities for Carlo Ancelotti and the job is now more or less done.
The only question now left to address is the curious case of Dani Carvajal.