Chelsea to open contract talks with German star

Chelsea are reportedly keen on committing defender Antonio Rudiger to a new long-term deal despite his fitness concerns during the current campaign.

The Germany international has suffered knee and groin injuries this term and he is currently sidelined until December after undergoing a surgery for the latter.

In this time, Kurt Zouma and Fikayo Tomori have established themselves as the first-choice pairing at the heart of the defence but Rudiger is expected to replace one of them when he returns to full fitness.

According to The Mail, the west London giants are prepared to open discussions with the agent of Rudiger over a fresh long-term deal which will include a wage hike.

Rudiger has less than two years remaining on his existing contract with the club and the Blues are aware that there is interest from elite European clubs in the German despite his fitness concerns this term.

Rudiger has made just one appearance for the Blues against Wolverhampton Wanderers this term. He could return to action during the festive period, provided there are no further setbacks.