Real Madrid defender pens new contract; announcement expected soon – Romano | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been on a roll in the transfer market, most notably announcing their first signing in Marc Cucurella.

In additon to Cucurella, Real Madrid have finalised deals to sign Bernardo Silva, Denzel Dumfries and Ibrahima Konate while bringing in Jose Mourinho as head coach.

Now, Real Madrid are on the verge of securing a contract extension for one of the most experienced players in the team in Antonio Rudiger, who was largely a spectator in Germany’s opening win over Curacao in the World Cup.

Rudiger pens new deal at Real Madrid

Rudiger will continue at Real Madrid. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

According to Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid have extended the contract of Rudiger, who has penned a new one-year deal until June 2027.

Rudiger’s existing contract was supposed to expire at the end of the month, which would have made him a free agent this summer. But the defender is now set to continue at the Bernabeu for another year.

Earlier in the season, Rudiger was facing an uncertain future at the club and was even expected to follow David Alaba and Dani Carvajal down the exit door.

However, the German’s performances came in handy during the second half of the season, especially with Eder Militao struggling with injuries and Raul Asencio finding no prominence in the team. He came out as a real leader.

As per Romano, Real Madrid are expected to announce the contract extension for Rudiger within the next 24 hours.

What will be Rudiger’s role next season?

Rudiger may have a reduced role at Real Madrid. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Following Alaba and Rudiger’s departures, Rudiger will be one of the most experienced members of the Real Madrid team next season.

But the German will also have to face intense competition, with Real Madrid expected to bring in Konate and possibly another centre-back.

That means the former Chelsea defender will have to compete with Raul Asencio, Dean Huijsen, Konate, Militao and a potential new centre-back, for a place in the starting eleven.

Given his experience and leadership, Rudiger may continue to enjoy minutes, especially in European matches. However, it won’t be surprising to see him adapt to a more reduced role in the team next season.