Premier League and Saudi Arabia emerge as possible options for Real Madrid defender | OneFootball

Antonio Rudiger is currently fully focused on his recovery from injury so that he can return to playing for Real Madrid at the earliest possible.

The 32-year-old centre-back has been out since September, but is closing in on a comeback, having resumed on-pitch training over the past week.

Meanwhile, question marks continue to linger over his future at the Santiago Bernabeu, given his contract expires at the end of the season.

Premier League, Saudi Arabia possible destinations

As has been reported, Real Madrid and Rudiger have held talks over a new deal, but things have taken a step back since his injury.

Now, according to Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany, both parties remain open to an extension beyond 2026.

At the same time, though, in case there is no renewal, Saudi Arabia have positioned themselves as suitors for the veteran defender, showing a strong interest in his services.

What next for Antonio Rudiger? (Photo by Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, a return to the Premier League would also be an option for Rudiger if Real Madrid decide not to extend his contract.

For now, though, both the player and the club remain open to the idea of continuing his partnership.

But at this moment, the priority is Rudiger’s return to full fitness and on-field action, with any negotiations over a renewal likely to take place only after that.

Since arriving from Chelsea as a free agent in 2022, the German international has become a popular figure at Real Madrid, endearing himself to his teammates and fans alike.

But his future will likely depend on how he returns from his injury setback and the way he performs in the remainder of the campaign.