Real Madrid are reportedly now the firm favourites to sign Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger.

The Germany international's contract at Stamford Bridge is due to expire at the end of June, and he is now expected to leave the Blues on a free transfer.

Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain have been strongly linked with the defender, who has scored five times and registered four assists in 47 appearances for Chelsea this term.

However, according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid are now leading the race, with the Spanish giants the 'closest team to finding an agreement'.

Romano claims that discussions between the two parties have been taking place since December, while Los Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti is allegedly pushing for the German to move to Bernabeu.

Man United are also now reportedly 'out of the race' despite being strongly linked with his services over the last few months.

The 29-year-old has been a key player for Chelsea since Thomas Tuchel's arrival as head coach, but he is not currently able to sign a new deal with the Blues due to the sanctions placed on owner Roman Abramovich. body check tags ::