Real Madrid and Antonio Rudiger have reached a verbal agreement for the center-back to join the club. Rudiger is expected to sign a long-term contract with the Spanish giants after his contract with Chelsea expires this summer.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid are close to signing Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger. “Real Madrid has reached a verbal agreement with Antonio Rüdiger,” Romano says, adding, “It’s going to be a long-term deal.” Before signing the contract, the final details will be negotiated.” This comes after Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel was cited as saying, as Romano also reported, that “he wants to leave the club.” In a private conversation, he informed me. We offered everything we had, but we couldn’t fight any longer due to the acts.”
What Does This Mean for Madrid?
In this transfer window, Real Madrid required the addition of another center-back. After the departures of Raphael Varane and, in particular, Sergio Ramos last year, they were left with only three recognizable central defenders, despite the signing of David Alaba. Rudiger strengthens the backline while also providing leadership and a winning pedigree.
It’s also a reflection of the times at Real Madrid. Kylian Mbappe, who is available on a free transfer, might possibly join this window. Madrid has been signing Galactico players for years, and with the recent change in spending habits, Perez may have tweaked his philosophy slightly to look for better deals.
What Does It Mean for Chelsea?
Chelsea is having difficulty closing deals. With the sanctions affecting the club at every turn, the London club will be eager to find a solution so that they can get their summer business in order. Players like Rudiger and Andreas Christensen appear to be on their way out of the club, with no obvious alternatives. Rudiger has been a stalwart in Chelsea’s defense and will be sorely missed.
