Rudiger sets deadline for Chelsea contract talks

Antonio Rudiger wants to make a final decision on his future by the end of April.

This further complicates an already difficult situation for Chelsea.

Before Abramovich was sanctioned, a four-year, £200,000-a-week deal was close to being agreed.

Now the talks are on hold due to the ongoing club sale. It is not known when a new owner would be announced and it could happen in May, after Rudiger's deadline passes.

The German wants to stay at the club. He is happy in London and has an extremely good relationship with Thomas Tuchel.

However, waiting for Chelsea to sort out the ownership situation and offer him a new contract is risky. He could pick up a major injury in the remaining games, so he is eager to resolve his future as soon as possible.

Barcelona and Real Madrid show interest in the defender. The Athletic claim that he has not signed a pre-contract agreement with any club yet.