Rudiger’s family more interested in Chelsea’s contract talks

Antonio Rudiger says his “family feel great in London” as the defender continues contract talks with Chelsea, with his current deal expiring this summer.

Rudiger is now able to sign a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs after entering the final six months of his deal.

“You have to think about your family. My kids were born here in London so that tells you that my family feel great here.

“The rest is up to other people to make decisions and then we will see if we come together or not.”

Rudiger is 29 in March and his next contract could be the biggest of his career, with the former Roma defender keen to be paid what he believes he is worth.

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Rudiger has not ruled out signing a new contract with Chelsea, but the European champions would have to make him the highest-paid defender in the Premier League if they were to keep him.

Chelsea’s most recent contract offer – made at the start of the season – was dismissed by Rudiger and his representatives as it promised to pay him only half of what the club’s top earners make.

Despite the uncertainty and speculation over his future, Rudiger says it is “easy” to remain committed to Chelsea for the remainder of his contract.

He said: “Yes, I find it easy to do. I’m not just saying words, I’m fully committed to the cause. I think I’ve always shown that.

“There were worse times than this so that’s why for me I’ve found it easy to deal with. I’m focused on what is happening here and on the pitch.

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“I owe it to everyone here around the club, the coach, my team-mates and my family so that’s why I’m only focused about the important things.

“The other things are speculation – I cannot say anything about that.”

The January transfer window opens on Saturday, January 1, 2022 and closes at 11pm on Monday, January 31.