Rudiger to Real Madird? as Tuchel gives latest development on Rudiger’s contract at Chelsea
The German international is free to speak with other clubs about signing a pre-contract and reports have claimed his representatives have held talks with Real Madrid.
However. Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger has stalled on extending his Chelsea contract which expires at the end of the season.
Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that the Blues are in discussions with the German over a new deal and also believes it’s possible Rudiger’s agent has held talks with other clubs.
“I cannot predict the future and I don’t know if his representatives are talking to other clubs or not. Tuchel said.
“Of course, it is possible they are right now [talking to other clubs] as it is January and he hasn’t signed a new contract with us yet but we are in communication with him, the club is in dialogue with his people.
“Toni is very aware of what I demand from him and how much I appreciate him. The level on which he is playing is outstanding.
“The point on Toni from my side is very clear, my opinion is clear and the club is trying their very best with him.”
Meanwhile, Rudiger has previously admitted that he was close to leaving the club when Frank Lampard was in charge.
Rudiger told Sky Sports: “Yeah [I was close to leaving], the way things were going for myself but also for the team.
“But in the winter [January 2021 window] period I was not keen to leave that much, to be honest. It was more in the summer period where I wanted to leave.
“But Thomas Tuchel came and the rest is history. He opened a new door, I would say it like that. To say he saved my career is a little bit too much. He played a big role.
“To be honest, it was easy [to carry on playing]. There was also a lot of noise going on when the last coach was sacked.
“There were a lot of negative rumours and everything and stuff like this. And I kept on doing what I’m doing… I don’t get easily shaken.”