The reasons for Real Madrid's interest in Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger has been revealed and there are two factors attracting their attention.

The German international is available on a free transfer, with his Chelsea contract expiring at the end of the season and the club have not yet agreed on an extension with Rudiger.

As per Marca, there are two reasons for the Spanish giants wanting to sign Rudiger.

The first 'factor' mentioned is the fact that Rudiger is available on a free transfer.

Los Blancos are reportedly still struggling from the economical impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, therefore cannot afford extraordinary transfer fees.

The Spaniard's will not have to pay a fee for Rudiger if he were to arrive, much like a deal which saw David Alaba join the club from Bayern Munich after his contract expired.

Secondly, Real Madrid are interested in the 28-year-old because he is an 'experienced, quality player in the prime of his career'.

The departures of Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos have left the club 'lacking' in defence, and they see Rudiger as an ideal replacement for the club legends.

The news comes following reports that Real Madrid have made Rudiger their 'number one priority.

More Chelsea Coverage

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Timberwolves chew up Nuggets to force Game 7
Rangers secure spot in conference finals after stunning third-period comeback over Hurricanes
Xander Schauffele makes history in first round of PGA Championship
Yankees' Hal Steinbrenner shares massive Juan Soto contract update
Steelers' Cameron Heyward addresses contract holdout
Knicks star ruled out for potential closeout game
Dodgers starter undergoes season-ending UCL surgery
Clemson’s Dabo Swinney gives smug response about not using transfer portal
Caitlin Clark's debut was most-watched WNBA game in more than 20 years
Watch: Chris Kreider's natural third-period hat trick shatters Hurricanes' comeback hopes
Veteran NFL safety will either play for this team or retire in 2024
Former Red Wings head coach linked to open NHL job
How Patriots' Drake Maye has already impressed Jacoby Brissett
LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Stephen Curry among Forbes' highest-paid athletes for 2024
Steve Cohen addresses if Mets could again be trade-deadline sellers
Tiger Woods ruins strong first round with sloppy finish at PGA Championship
NFL responds to speculation about Chiefs schedule and Taylor Swift
Despite hopes for change, NASCAR championship weekend will return to Phoenix in 2025
Chiefs will achieve something not done since 1927 with 2024 schedule
Yankees' Aaron Judge comments on resurgence after bad slump

Want more FC news?

Join the hundreds of thousands of fans who start their day with Yardbarker's Morning Bark, the best newsletter in sports.