Chelsea is about to welcome a Champions League winner on a free transfer.

Chelsea is on the verge of acquiring a defender who has twice been a Champions League winner and understands the club’s ethos, with no cost involved, which is uncommon in transfer dealings.

According to sources from Spain, Chelsea is considering the possibility of re-signing Antonio Rudiger on a free transfer from Real Madrid. Rudiger ended his five-year spell at Chelsea to join the Bernabeu in 2022, and the 32-year-old defender has proven to be an extremely valuable signing for the Spanish giants.

Since joining Real Madrid, Rudiger has appeared in 163 matches across all competitions, helping Los Blancos secure eight trophies, including the 2023/24 Champions League title.

However, Rudiger’s contract with Madrid will expire next summer, and the German defender’s future is uncertain as several top clubs closely monitor the situation.

According to the Spanish outlet AS, Rudiger currently has “multiple options” if he fails to agree on a contract extension with Real Madrid after this season ends. Among these, Chelsea has emerged as the leading candidate. The Blues are reportedly “very interested” in bringing Rudiger back to Stamford Bridge.

During his time at Chelsea, Rudiger became a fan favorite thanks to his aggressive, powerful style of play and his relentless fighting spirit.

He won a total of five trophies with “The Blues,” including the Champions League, Europa League, and FA Cup. The German center-back was also twice named in the Champions League Team of the Season and was the only Chelsea player included in the Premier League Team of the Season for 2021/22.

Speaking to German media earlier this year about his future, Rudiger said:

“Honestly, in football, you can never predict what will happen. I’m very, very happy at Real Madrid. I’m not thinking about leaving anytime soon. But in football, you never know what might come.”.

Turkish media also report that Galatasaray is considering signing Rudiger in the winter transfer window, although the Super Lig champions have yet to officially respond to the rumors. Sources say Rudiger is “quite open” to hearing potential offers from Galatasaray.

Reports also list Paris Saint-Germain among the admirers of Rudiger, with coach Luis Enrique believing the German defender could bring experience and leadership qualities to the PSG dressing room.

The Saudi Pro League is also seen as an option, with Al Nassr and Al Hilal closely watching Rudiger’s future developments.