Chelsea Are Eager To Re-Sign This Real Madrid Defender This January: What Will He Add To Maresca’s Side? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Fichajes revealed that Chelsea are eager to re-sign Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger this January. It has been mentioned that the Blues are showing interest in bringing the German talent back to Stamford Bridge in the winter transfer window.

Rudiger’s Injury-Plagued Season In Spain

Rudiger has missed most of his campaign because of a hamstring injury. He has only made one appearance for the Madrid outfit this season in the league.

However, when fit, Rudiger remains one of the best centre-backs in La Liga. The German talent was a rock at the back for Los Blancos last season and could play a crucial role for them in the remainder of this campaign. Thus, it is no surprise that the Blues are hoping to bring him back to the English capital this winter.

Rudiger is under contract at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium until the end of this campaign, which could open the door for Chelsea to sign him on the cheap when the transfer window reopens this January.

COLOGNE, GERMANY – SEPTEMBER 07: Antonio Rüdiger of Germany gestures during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Germany and Northern Ireland at RheinEnergieStadion on September 07, 2025 in Cologne, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

What Will Rudiger Add To Chelsea Boss Enzo Maresca’s Team?

Rudiger loves a tackle and can sense the danger well to secure possession back for his side on the defensive end of the field. He usually puts his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot and can use his strong 1.90m frame to win a few 50-50 aerial duels for his team.

The Germany international has already proven himself in the Premier League and won’t take much time to adjust to life at his former club, Chelsea. We can expect him to add a lot of quality to Enzo Maresca’s defence.

Rudiger is more than capable of securing a regular first-team place at Stamford Bridge and could help the Blues compete for some major silverware over the next few years. Thus, Maresca should focus on trying everything in his power to lure him back to England in this winter transfer window.

At 32, Rudiger has still got a few good years left in him to play at his best. Hence, he would be a good signing for the Blues in the short term if they can get him on board for a reasonable fee this January.