Real Madrid have reportedly moved a step closer to securing the signing of Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger.
On Sunday evening, Blues head coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed that speculation regarding the Germany international was true and that he would depart Stamford Bridge on a free transfer in the summer.
Although a number of clubs hold a long-standing interest in the 29-year-old, it has been claimed in recent days that Los Blancos are at the front of the queue.
According to ESPN, Rudiger's representatives have been able to reach "a preliminary agreement" with the La Liga giants regarding a move later in 2022.
While the report claims that a deal is yet to be formally completed, it is suggested that Rudiger will pen a four-year contract at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Rudiger, who is said to have turned down a £230,000 per week deal to stay at Chelsea, has allegedly reduced his wage demands to sign for Real.
Darren Plant
