Real Madrid edging closer to deal for Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger?

Real Madrid have reportedly emerged as the clear favourites to sign Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger in the summer.

While the Germany international remains a key part of a Blues squad challenging for the Premier League and Champions League, he has just six-and-a-half months remaining on his contract.

Chelsea have been eager to agree fresh terms with the 28-year-old for a number of months but have failed to reach a positive resolution.

According to The Guardian, the Chelsea hierarchy are torn over whether to meet Rudgier's contract demands, said to be in the region of £200,000 per week.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, are allegedly happy to hand the versatile defender a deal of his choosing as they bid to take advantage of a high-profile player potentially being available on a free transfer.

Rudiger can formally discuss and agree a pre-contract agreement with any foreign club as soon as January 1.