Antonio Rudiger 'wants £225k per week at Chelsea'

Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger is reportedly holding out for a £225k-per-week deal if he is to renew his Stamford Bridge contract.

The former Roma man is free to enter talks with other clubs ahead of the expiry of his Chelsea contract in 2022, with Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid all linked with a swoop.

Rudiger's wage demands are thought to be hindering negotiations with the Blues, with the 28-year-old reported to have recently rejected a £200k-per-week deal to stay at the club.

According to The Athletic, Rudiger will consider penning a new deal if he is offered £225k per week by the Blues, who are still optimistic that an agreement can be reached.

The report adds that a £173k-a-week offer from Real Madrid has been rejected by Rudiger, and Bayern Munich are also keeping a close eye on developments.

Rudiger has banked three goals and four assists in 32 appearances for Thomas Tuchel's side this term, starting 23 Premier League matches amid his contract standoff.