Real Madrid News
Real Madrid reach verbal agreement with Antonio Rudiger: Fabrizio Romano
Real Madrid are on the verge of securing their first signing of the new season, in the form of Antonio Rudiger, reports Fabrizio Romano.
The reliable Italian journalist has given his “here we go” for the club’s pursuit of the Chelsea centre-back, who has reached a verbal agreement with Los Blancos ahead of a Bosman move in the summer.
Rudiger is yet to physically pen a contract, but his representatives had met with Real Madrid’s hierarchy, where a verbal agreement has been reached.
The report comes a day after Thomas Tuchel officially confirmed the departure of the German at the end of the season. The Chelsea manager revealed the two parties could not reach an agreement over a new contract and will depart Stamford Bridge on a free transfer.
Romano adds Rudiger has agreed a long-term contract, though the exact details of the deal are still being worked on, with both parties optimistic about finalising the agreement in the near future.
Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus were some of the other clubs involved in the pursuit of the German international, but the race was won by Real Madrid, who are prepared to offer him a key defensive role alongside Eder Militao and David Alaba.
Rudiger himself has stated his desire to play for Los Merengues in the past, so his decision to move to Santiago Bernabeu this summer could hardly be a surprise.
The addition of the former Borussia Dortmund starlet could prove to be a massive boost for Carlo Ancelotti, who has struggled with his side’s lack of depth in the central defensive unit.
With almost 200 competitive appearances for Chelsea, Rudiger offers vast experience at the highest level of football. It is combined with his dogged defensive philosophy and leadership that could be pivotal in Real Madrid’s bid to restore their lost glory next season.
Real Madrid have finally received some good news as MARCA confirms that Nacho has finally made his decision about his future, and is set to continue at the club for the foreseeable future.
His contract expires in the summer, and Real Madrid had tabled an extension for the player, which was not accepted by the Spaniard at the time. Now, however, he has decided to reject offers from Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.
Nacho will sign a one year extension, with the option to extend for another year if both parties reach an agreement.
His continuity also means that he will be the new club captain for the 2023/24 season, since Karim Benzema is leaving the club on a free transfer in the summer. Luka Modric will be second captain, followed by Daniel Carvajal and Toni Kroos.
Carlo Ancelotti has also spoken to the player, confirming that they trust him for next season in the team, which has gone a long way in helping convince the player.
The Italian gaffer also spoke about the Spanish defender’s contract situation after the game against Athletic Club yesterday, saying:
“Asensio, Nacho and Ceballos? We have explained them their roles. The club have offered them renewals. Asensio has preferred to leave, Ceballos and Nacho are still thinking about it.”
While a centre-back by trade, Nacho has played across the defence for Madrid continuously, including putting shifts at left-back, right-back, and even centre-back.
His departure would have probably pushed Madrid to sign another defender, especially since they are considering selling Ferland Mendy if a good offer arrives.
Regardless of that, though, Madrid are moving to sign Alphonso Davies, and have already made initial contacts with the player. Bayern Munich have not rejected their advances.
Further, the los blancos management have already met with Davies’ entourage twice, cementing their interest in the Canadian ace.
