Chelsea have NOT opened talks with Antonio Rudiger over new contract but Germany defender keen for fresh deal

ANTONIO RUDIGER has reportedly told Thomas Tuchel he wants to stay at Chelsea even though new contract talks are yet to start.

The 28-year-old defender is currently starring for Germany at Euro 2020 after helping the Blues to Champions League glory last month.

Rudiger only has a year remaining on his deal at Stamford Bridge and can sign a pre-contract agreement with any overseas club from January.

But Sky Sports claims that the centre-back is ‘understood to be keen to sign a new long-term’ contract with Chelsea.

And if one is not forthcoming, then he will happily see out the remainder of his package in West London and leave for nothing in June 2022.

The Premier League side were in the process of extending the contract of Rudiger prior to the January transfer window.

That was a move designed to protect his transfer value as he seemed certain to leave on loan.

AC Milan, Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain were all keen as the ace found himself out of favour under Frank Lampard.

But ever since Tuchel replaced Lampard in the hot-seat back in January things have looked up for Rudiger after he decided against a loan in order to fight for his place.

He has now established himself as a regular following his countryman's arrival.

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And he enjoyed an impressive second half of the campaign that ended in a top four finish and Champions League glory.

However, Rudiger knows that there are several teams from across the continent who are interested in signing him.

And a number have already contacted his representatives to enquire about his situation at the Bridge.

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