Official: Real Madrid confirm signing of Rudiger for free from Chelsea
The defender joins Madrid after running down his contract at Stamford Bridge
Real Madrid have confirmed the signing of Antonio Rudiger from Chelsea on a free transfer. The German defender has agreed a contract at the Santiago Bernabeu until 2026.
"Real Madrid C.F. have reached an agreement to sign Antonio Rüdiger, who joins the club on a four-year deal," the club announced on Thursday.
"Rüdiger will be unveiled as a Real Madrid player on Monday 20 June at 12 noon (CET) at Real Madrid City. Following his unveiling, he will address the media.
"The German defender checks in from Chelsea, where he played a key role in the London club's 2020/21 Champions League triumph.
"Rüdiger (Berlin, 03/03/1993) is now a Real Madrid player. We have strengthened our squad by signing one of the best defenders in world football after the German international has joined the club from Chelsea.
"He was a pivotal member of the London side’s squad that lifted the Champions League, the Europa League, the Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup and FA Cup. He has also featured in the Champions League Team of the Season in both of the last two seasons."
Rudger said: "I'm proud to announce that I'll be joining Real Madrid. I'm super excited for all the challenges ahead and can't wait to play my first games for this huge club."
I'm proud to announce that I'll be joining @RealMadrid 🙏🏾💪🏾🙌🏾 I'm super excited for all the challenges ahead and can't wait to play my first games for this huge club. #HalaMadrid #AlwasyBelieve #Hustle pic.twitter.com/zol5Z0NJbe
— Antonio Rüdiger (@ToniRuediger) 2 de junio de 2022
Rudiger's departure is likely to be the first of many from Chelsea's defence this summer. With Andreas Christensen set to join Barcelona for free, the club are also waiting for news on Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta's futures.
Meanwhile, the London club will push ahead with plans to sign Sevilla's Jules Kounde.
