Chelsea handed huge boost in January transfer window with big star set to stay

Chelsea have been handed a huge boost in the January transfer window, with Antonio Rudiger set to stay at Stamford Bridge for the time being.

Real Madrid have reportedly pull out of the race to sign the German international.

The German defender’s contract runs out in the summer, and he is now free to negotiate with teams outside of the Premier League.

It was thought that the Bernabeu beckoned for the former Roma defender, but senior chiefs in Spain’s capital expressed concerns over his £200,000 per week wages.

And due to Eder Militao’s blossoming centre-back partnership with David Alaba, this means Rudiger isn’t a priority for Madrid.

Bayern Munich have also expressed an interest in Rudiger, as the German champions are set to lose Nicolas Sule, as his contract is also running out too.

Now that the front-runners have ended their interest, Chelsea may be able to keep one of their key defenders.

Rudiger has been a revelation ever since Thomas Tuchel took the reigns at Chelsea.

Tuchel has implemented a five at the back, with Rudiger, along with Thiago Silva and Andreas Christensen proving to be a great partnership, with Chelsea proving to be one of Europe’s tightest defences.

Rudiger has been almost ever present as the left-sided centre back.

And now it looks as though the interest has cooled on him, it will provide a big boost for Chelsea and Tuchel, with the club enduring a rough patch in the Premier League, and also off the field.

Romelu Lukaku did an explosive interview with Sky Sports Italy, where he criticised Tuchel’s system and tactics, arguing it didn’t play to his strengths.

He also looked back fondly at his time at Inter Milan - the team Chelsea signed him from - and dropped hints that he wants an imminent return.

On the pitch they have also struggled, drawing at home to Everton, away to Wolves and recently conceded a late goal to Brighton, with Danny Welbeck striking in injury time to deny Chelsea all three points.

So, the fact Rudiger could be staying, will be a timely boost for the club.