Real Madrid Stalls on Antonio Rudiger Deal as Key Concerns Emerge—Report

Real Madrid are allegedly awaiting formal bids from Saudi Pro League clubs before finalizing Antonio Rüdiger's contract situation.

Rüdiger, who arrived at the Santiago Bernabéu in 2022 on a free transfer from Chelsea, has just six months remaining on his current deal with the La Liga club. There has been widespread speculation that Real Madrid have no intention of extending the 32-year-old defender's contract, considering his age, extensive injury record and recent dip in performance levels.

However, Fabrizio Romano indicates the club is avoiding hasty choices regarding the experienced player. Rüdiger shares the same approach as the 15-time European champions, willing to delay any decisions until the campaign concludes before settling on his next career move.

The final choice may depend on the Saudi Pro League, who continue to show "very, very strong interest" in the German defender. A substantial financial proposal from clubs such as Al Hilal or Al Nassr could potentially persuade Rüdiger to depart Madrid, effectively resolving Real's dilemma.

Nevertheless, the current priority for both Real Madrid and Rüdiger remains the 2024-25 campaign. With numerous defensive injuries plaguing Los Blancos once more, Carlo Ancelotti requires the ex-Chelsea player's services more than ever to reclaim the La Liga title from Barcelona.

David Alaba's Real Madrid Future Already Determined

In contrast to Rüdiger, fellow central defender David Alaba, who also has six months left on his contract, won't need to wait until season's end to discover his Real Madrid destiny.

Romano indicates there are "absolutely no" discussions regarding an extension for the Austrian's agreement. When the summer transfer period arrives, Alaba is anticipated to depart the Spanish capital without a transfer fee.

This development isn't shocking considering the defender's massive wages—Alaba receives €22.5 million ($26.4 million) annually at Real Madrid, yet has featured in only 31 matches across the past two seasons. During 2024-25, he has made merely four appearances.

Los Blancos are targeting a significant improvement over Alaba for the upcoming summer. Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano and Crystal Palace talent Marc Guéhi continue to lead the club's recruitment priorities.