Antonio Rudiger has said that he has no plans to leave Real Madrid, but the centre-back has refused to rule out the prospect of returning to Italian football before the end of his career.

The 32-year-old made the move to Bernabeu on a free transfer in 2022 following the expiration of his contract at Chelsea, and he has been a vital player for the European and Spanish champions since his arrival.

Rudiger has featured on 143 occasions for Los Blancos, scoring six goals and registering two assists in the process, including two goals in 41 appearances for the capital giants during the 2024-25 campaign.

There is currently speculation surrounding the centre-back's future, though, as he has entered the final 18 months of his deal.

A number of Saudi Arabian clubs are said to be keeping a close eye on the Germany international, who could have the chance to make a lucrative switch to the Saudi Pro League in the not too distant future.

Rudiger opens door to potential Real Madrid exit

Rudiger is currently in Italy with the Germany squad, preparing to face the Blues in Wednesday night's UEFA Nations League quarter-final first leg.

The defender previously played in Serie A for Roma, and he has refused to rule out a return to Italy's top flight before the end of his career despite insisting that he has no plans to leave Real Madrid.

"I like the country and really enjoyed my time in Italy. You have great clubs here. In football, you never know, but I'm very happy where I am now. I don't plan on leaving any time soon. But in the future: who knows?" Rudiger told reporters.

The German has triumphed in La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League during his time at Real Madrid, and Los Blancos still have a chance of winning all three of those trophies in the latter stages of this season.

Real Madrid will sign a new centre-back this summer

Real Madrid will bring a new centre-back to Bernabeu during this summer's transfer window, and it is understood that Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen has emerged as their leading target due to his excellent form this season.

There is a £50m release clause in the 19-year-old's Bournemouth contract, and there is expected to be a scramble for his services during this summer's transfer window.

Carlo Ancelotti's side have also been linked with Arsenal's William Saliba, but the Frenchman is likely to be too expensive, with the Gunners believed to value him in excess of £80m.

Valencia's Yarek Gasiorowski and Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite are also seen as potential options for Real Madrid this summer amid concerns surrounding the long-term fitness of David Alaba, who returned from a severe knee injury earlier this year.