Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger could be on the verge of sparking a mass exodus from the club as he reportedly agrees terms with Serie A giants Juventus.
The 29-year-old Germany international is nearing the end of his current Blues contract and hopes of an extension appear to be all but over after the defender held communication with the Turin-based titans. Rudiger has emerged as one of the club's most important players ever since Thomas Tuchel succeeded Chelsea legend Frank Lampard in January of last year.
Despite the fact that Rudiger is widely viewed as one of the most prominent, vocal figures inside the Blues dressing room, the Chelsea hierarchy have failed to meet his wage demands and as a result expect him to leave at the end of the season. The defender wanted to be placed alongside some of the highest-earners within the squad, something that could prove difficult in the wake of Chelsea's newfound financial struggles.
Exiled club owner Roman Abramovich was the subject of financial sanctions imposed by the UK Government and Chelsea are inevitably feeling the strain on their purse strings. The club have been placed under a special license that allows them to continue to operate, but unable to negotiate new deals.
As a result, Rudiger has made the decision to call time on his stay in West London after five years and join Juventus. Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport report the former Roma defender has agreed a long-term deal with Massimiliano Allegri's side.
Rudiger has long held his cards close to his chest when it comes to discussing his long-term future. After last week's Champions League away win over French outfit Lille, the Blues star suggested he would not reveal his plans until the current campaign has finished.
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"In the case of transfer rumours, it is well known that the media always like to add a little more salt and pepper to make the headline a bit more explosive and bigger," Rudiger added. "Accordingly, you will not hear from me until the day of the final decision.
"We still have a lot to do at Chelsea this season, and my full focus at the moment is on the City game. My agent is currently taking care of everything else."
Rudiger has already won one Champions League title as a Chelsea player and could still retain the club's crown this season as the Blues prepare for the task of toppling Spanish giants Real Madrid in the last eight. To even stand a chance of lifting club football's biggest trophy, Rudiger will need to ensure full-focus is on the pitch.
