Real Madrid Nears Deal to Retain Antonio Rudiger

Real Madrid is preparing for defensive adjustments this summer, though perhaps less drastically than initially thought. While the arrival of a new central defender at the Bernabéu is anticipated, and David Alaba is expected to depart upon the expiration of his contract, attention now turns to whether there will be a second change in the center-back department.

The decision heavily hinges on the future of Antonio Rudiger. The 33-year-old Germany international's contract is also set to conclude this summer. Earlier in the season, predictions suggested he would also be moved on, with Los Blancos potentially aiming to bring in two new defenders.

Rudiger Edges Closer to New Contract Agreement

However, recent reports from Matteo Moretto on RadioMarca indicate that Rudiger is nearing a new agreement. While discussions are still active and a final decision has not been reached, Moretto suggests that his information points towards Rudiger being more likely to remain at Real Madrid than to leave. Despite ongoing concerns within the club regarding his fitness, particularly his knee, which has been diagnosed with early onset arthritis, developments are reportedly moving in a positive direction for a potential one-year extension.

Injury Record and Importance to the Squad

Rudiger's fitness has been a recurring issue. Towards the end of last season, he underwent knee surgery that sidelined him for six weeks, followed by a second intervention in September, which kept him out for approximately three months. A third injury within a year occurred in January. In total, he has missed 21 games this season, featuring in just 17 matches.

Despite these setbacks, Rudiger has consistently returned to the starting XI when fit, competing for a spot alongside Raul Asencio and Dean Huijsen. As one of the more experienced players at Real Madrid, his potential retention becomes even more significant given Alaba's expected departure. From the current squad, only Thibaut Courtois, Dani Carvajal, Dani Ceballos, and Ferland Mendy will be in their thirties next season, and there are whispers that among these four, only Courtois is guaranteed to continue. Rudiger's experience could therefore be crucial for the team's stability.