- 19 hours ago
EXCLUSIVE: Chelsea exploring shock move to bring back Antonio Rudiger
Steve Kay
- Updated: 7 May 2025 10:01 CDT
- 4 min read
Exclusive
FootballTransfers understands that Chelsea are exploring a shock move to bring Antonio Rudiger back to Stamford Bridge.
We have been told that the Blues have reached out to the defender's camp in recent days to be kept informed on Rudiger’s future at Real Madrid, with early groundwork being laid for a potential summer swoop.
Current ETV
Antonio Rüdiger
D (C)
Real Madrid
Antonio Rüdiger
D (C)
Real Madrid
ETV Range
€12.1M - €14.8M
The West London side are understood to be "ready to negotiate" if given the green light for a move that would reunite the German superstar with his former club three years after his painful departure on a free transfer.
Rudiger is generally happy at Real Madrid, but a change of scenery could be needed, with sources close to the player informing us that the 32-year-old has become increasingly difficult to deal with in recent months.
One source familiar with recent developments revealed: “It’s been tense. He’s clashed with people in his inner circle, and it’s made discussions on certain matters extremely difficult.”
Most notably, Rudiger is said to have fallen out with his brother and agent, Sahr Senesie, just before Christmas. The exact reason for the dispute is unknown, but it became so heated that the Los Blancos star threatened to cut ties entirely.
Chelsea not worried about Rudiger's personality
Despite the personal drama, Chelsea believe the German international remains a world-class asset. “He’s a leader, a warrior, exactly what this Chelsea dressing room needs,” a club source said. “There’s no fear about his personality. If anything, that fire is what we’re missing.”
And there may be cause for optimism. Rudiger previously spoke with deep affection about his time in London, stating in 2022: "Chelsea will always be in my heart. London will always be my home."
While Real Madrid have yet to take a firm stance, the situation could escalate quickly. In recent months, there has been talk of a potential contract extension, but in light of the player's antics in the Copa del Rey final, which resulted in a six-game ban, the LaLiga giants could reconsider his role in the team.
Moreover, with Eder Militao nearing a return to the pitch and Madrid showing interest in Arsenal’s William Saliba and Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, the two-time Champions League winner's position may come under threat.
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