Antonio Rudiger will be moving to Real Madrid as a free agent at the end of the current season. The Chelsea defender’s contract expires in June, and due to the current sanctions, the club has failed to renew his deal.

Thomas Tuchel yesterday confirmed that the player would be leaving Chelsea at the end of the season. Real Madrid were believed to lead the race at the time, and have now reached an agreement with him and his agent for a transfer.

Antonio Rudiger to sign with Real Madrid until 2026

Real Madrid have reached verbal agreement with Antonio Rüdiger. Contract not signed yet – but Real Madrid are now closing on Rüdiger deal on a free: here we go soon! ⚪️🤝 #RealMadrid

It’s gonna be a long-term deal. Final details to be discussed soon, before signing the contract. pic.twitter.com/Jn0uvP0UQa
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 25, 2022

A four-year deal between the Germany international and Los Blancos has been agreed. This will see the player become one of the key first team defenders, while David Alaba could be shifted out to play left-back with Ferland Mendy battling fitness issues.

Only the final details remain to be sorted out between Antonio Rudiger and Real Madrid. The defender is expected to sign the contract in May itself, but the announcement will not be made until the end of the season. Chelsea are facing Liverpool in the FA Cup final, and an announcement now would be additionally hurtful to the morale of the club in such a difficult time.

Rudiger has been one of Chelsea’s best players under Thomas Tuchel, and helped them win the Champions League last season. His departure following the sanctions in place will be a huge blow for the team. And now, they will have to turn to the transfer market to find a suitable replacement for the German.