Germany defender, Antonio Rudiger, has joined Spanish and European champions Real Madrid from Chelsea, the two clubs confirmed on Thursday.
“Real Madrid have reached an agreement to sign Antonio Rüdiger, who joins the club on a four-year deal,” the newly-crowned UEFA Champions League winners stated.
Spanish champions, Real Madrid, added that the official presentation would take place on June 20.
“I’m proud to announce that I’ll be joining Real Madrid. I’m super excited for all the challenges ahead and can’t wait to play my first games for this huge club,” Rüdiger tweeted.
The 29-year-old defender joins Real on a free transfer after he failed to renew his contract with Chelsea following five years at the London club.
READ ALSO: Tuchel: Rudiger will leave Chelsea at end of season
During this period, he played 203 games and won the UEFA Champions League, the Europa League, the European Super Cup, the FIFA Club World Cup and the FA Cup.
Chelsea said the 50-times capped centre-back played “a crucial role in all those triumphs at the heart of our defence”.
The club further described Rudiger as “one of the most passionate characters to represent the club in recent memory”.
“Chelsea Football Club thanks Toni for his contribution to our success over the last five years and wishes him well in his future career,” the club added.
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