Real Madrid, Bayern Confident of Landing Antonio Rudiger

Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea in March 2020
Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea in March 2020. Photo by Mark Greenwood/IPS/Shutterstock (10577112ba)

Chelsea center-back Antonio Rudiger is currently the transfer target for several elite Europe’s football clubs, numerous reports have revealed. As the player’s contract extension talks with Chelsea have reached a deadlock, the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have both expressed confidence in their abilities to land the German national’s signature. The star is currently serving the final year of his current contract with the Blues.

According to several sources, the root of the deadlock in negotiations is Rudiger’s wage demands. While the player is looking to double his £100,000-a-week wage, the club has confirmed that they are not willing to go above £150,000-a-week.

Rudiger, who has been in strong form since the start of the season, is currently being eyed by the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, as well as the aforementioned clubs. In addition to being one of Europe’s top defenders, Rudiger is an appealing transfer due to the possibility of not having to pay a transfer fee for the player should his contract run out.

From January 1, 2022, Rudiger will have the freedom to engage in negotiations will potential suitors. Still, the player remains relaxed about his future, simply stating: “The interest honors me. That shows that I’ve done a few things right recently but I don’t let myself be distracted. I have an obligation to my club to perform well.”