Barcelona 'monitoring Antonio Rudiger situation'

Barcelona have reportedly identified Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger as a potential transfer target.

With less than six months remaining on his contract, the 28-year-old has admirers all across Europe as clubs contemplate whether to move for a player who could become a free agent.

If reports are to be believed, Real Madrid are no longer the favourites to sign the Germany international, but the likes of Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus remain as potential destinations.

According to Sky Sports News, Barcelona cannot be ruled out of the running with club officials known to be assessing their options when it comes to players who will not command a transfer fee.

While players who will ask for less money are seemingly more attractive options to the Catalan giants, Rudiger could emerge as a realistic arrival if they are able to significantly reduce their wage bill.

Rudiger remains a key player at Stamford Bridge, making a total of 27 starts in all competitions this season.