Real Madrid reach verbal agreement to extend Antonio Rudiger’s contract

Real Madrid are set to hand Antonio Rudiger a new one-year contract extension.

The German international’s current deal had been due to expire this summer, but an extension until 2027 is close to being finalised following positive talks in recent days.

Rudiger’s renewal is understood to follow Madrid’s long-standing policy of offering short-term extensions to players aged over 30.

The 33-year-old joined Madrid on a free transfer from Chelsea in 2022 and has since become one of the senior figures inside the dressing room at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Rudiger has made 182 appearances for Madrid and helped the club win eight trophies, including the Champions League and La Liga double during the 2023-24 campaign.

Despite struggling with injury problems this season, Madrid still view the defender as an important part of their plans moving forward.

Hamstring and knee issues limited Rudiger to just 26 appearances across all competitions as Madrid finished without silverware for a second successive campaign.

However, club officials reportedly remained convinced that his leadership and experience will continue to be valuable during a period of transition.

Jose Mourinho is set to return to Madrid as manager this summer, and the squad had already anticipated Rudiger remaining at the club next season.

Madrid face major defensive changes ahead of the new campaign.

The club have already confirmed the departures of experienced defenders David Alaba and Dani Carvajal following the expiry of their contracts.

Injuries to Eder Militao and inconsistent form from younger options have further increased the importance of retaining Rudiger for at least another season.

His influence on younger players has been highlighted repeatedly behind the scenes.

Rudiger was recently included in Germany’s World Cup squad and remains a key figure for his country despite his advancing years.

Madrid will strengthen defensively this summer, but keeping Rudiger avoids the need for another major investment at centre-back during a rebuild.