Chelsea defender Rudiger set to complete free transfer to Real Madrid

Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea celebrates 0-2 during the UEFA Champions League match between Real Madrid v Chelsea at the Santiago Bernabeu on April 12, 2022 in Madrid Spain.

Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger is set to complete
his free transfer to Real Madrid, according to reports.

The German international is believed to have completed a medical and
signed a four-year contract with the Spanish giants worth €9-10million (£8m)
per year – after tax – with a €400m release clause, according to The Athletic. 

Real Madrid will announce the deal after the Champions League
final with Rudiger currently preparing for key Premier League games with the
Blues in addition to Saturday’s FA Cup final against Liverpool.

Rudiger leaves Chelsea after five years at Stamford Bridge, winning the
Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup during a decorated period in west
London.

Rudiger was subject of interest from Italy and France but
has opted for the 13-times European Cup winners.

Signed from Roma in 2017, the German slowly grew into his
new surroundings at Chelsea before his true potential started to show.

His best form has undoubtedly come in the last 12 months
under the guidance of fellow German Thomas Tuchel, delivering a host of
eye-catching displays that ultimately seduced the Spaniards.

Chelsea coach Tuchel has made clear his disappointment at
losing his star centre-back this summer and will have a hard time replacing the
29-year-old.

Tuchel confirmed the
sanctions imposed on Chelsea and outgoing owner Roman Abramovich meant they were
unable to tie Rudiger down to a new deal.

When asked about the Germany
international’s decision to leave, Tuchel replied: I don’t think anybody likes
it. He gives everybody confidence in the dressing room. He is a unique
character and plays on an outstanding level. He sometimes takes the focus
towards him, he loves responsibility.

Nobody likes this decision but
we have to accept it. Like it or not there will be life at Chelsea after Toni.
It is also the most important thing for us that it ends like it started, on the
highest level.