Chelsea planning long-term contract for German star

Chelsea are reportedly prepared to discuss a fresh long-term deal with defender Antonio Rudiger following his bright start to the season under manager Maurizio Sarri.

The Germany international joined the Blues from Roma in the summer of 2017 and he has a missed first season where he was in-and-out of the starting lineup under Antonio Conte.

However, with the arrival of Sarri, Rudiger has managed to remain ever-present in the club's Premier League campaign and his performances have been deemed worthy of a contract extension.

According to The Mail, the Blues are planning to dish out a new contract for the Germany international despite his existing deal only expiring in the summer of 2022.

Meanwhile, Rudiger is presently on a weekly package of around £100,000 and it is suggested that the contract renewal will hand him a reasonable increase on his salary.

Chelsea entertain BATE Borisov in the Europa League group stage on Thursday night. Rudiger may find himself on the bench in order for Gary Cahill and Andreas Christensen to earn some gametime.