Barcelona 'unlikely to sign Antonio Rudiger this summer'

Barcelona are reportedly unlikely to offer Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger a contract.

The Germany international's current deal at Stamford Bridge is due to expire at the end of June, and there has been a host of speculation surrounding his future in recent months.

Barcelona sporting director Mateu Alemany and deputy Jordi Cruyff are believed to have recently met with Rudiger's agent to discuss a possible switch to Camp Nou on a free transfer.

However, according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, there has been no official offer from the Catalan giants, who are expected to drop their interest.

Romano claims that Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen is heading for Camp Nou on a free transfer this summer, while a breakthrough has been reached in contract discussions with Ronald Araujo, who is now preparing to sign a new deal.

As a result, Barcelona will not be looking to bring another centre-back to the club despite being admirers of Rudiger.

The 29-year-old is still currently unable to sign a new deal with Chelsea due to the sanctions placed on the English club's owner Roman Abramovich.

Juventus and Manchester United continue to be credited with an interest in the German.