Real Madrid close to agreeing Antonio Rudiger deal

Free transfer likely after verbal agreement with the Chelsea defender over a lucrative four-year contract

Real Madrid are close to signing Antonio Rudiger on a free transfer after reaching a verbal agreement with the Chelsea defender over a lucrative four-year contract. Picture: PA

Real Madrid are close to signing Antonio Rudiger on a free transfer after reaching a verbal agreement with the Chelsea defender over a lucrative four-year contract.

Rudiger held positive talks with the Bernabeu club’s hierarchy over the weekend and is set to receive a considerable pay rise after deciding to leave Chelsea when his contract expires at the end of the season. Madrid’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has identified the Germany international as a key signing in defence and while the move has not been finalised it is expected to be confirmed soon. The 29-year-old is expected to earn at least £200,000 a week.