Antonio Rudiger is moving closer to committing his future to Chelsea by signing a new long-term deal, according to reports.
The German star found himself on the periphery of Chelsea’s team under Frank Lampard but has since established himself as an important player in Thomas Tuchel’s defence, helping the club win the Champions League last campaign.
The Blues have been sweating over his contract situation, with Rudiger set to become a free agent at the end of the 2021/22 season as it stands.
However, Chelsea are confident Andreas Christensen will sign a new contract and it appears Rudiger will follow suit, despite the interest from several top sides in Europe.
According to Bild, Bayern Munich made contact with Rudiger’s half-brother and agent, Sahr Senesie, to discuss whether he would be interested in returning to Germany next summer.
But the report claims Rudiger is now close to signing a contract renewal at Stamford Bridge, with the west London side ready to offer significantly improved wages on his current deal.
Chelsea are aware the situation could change, though, with PSG, Real Madrid and Tottenham also monitoring developments and ready to test their resolve.
The former Roma defender is now in his his fifth campaign with Chelsea, playng over 150 matches and winning four pieces of silverware in that time.
Once Rudiger and Christensen’s futures are resolved, the Blues will look to tie down Mason Mount, Jorginho and N’Golo Kante with bumper new deals.
Speaking on his Vibe with Five podcast this week, Rio Ferdinand said Rudiger was the best central defender in the Premier League on current form.
‘Since Tuchel has come I think he’s arguably been the best centre-back. I think him and [Ruben] Dias would have been close but the effect he has had on his team has been immense,’ the ex-Manchester United and England centre-back said.
‘Under Frank, it was evident he wasn’t Frank’s cup of tea. He didn’t really like him. There was rumours there were trying to put him in the market to be sold.
‘In Germany, he’s always been highly thought of. But when the manager doesn’t rate you and you can feel that, I don’t care who you are your confidence takes a beating and it’s hard to perform at that level.’
