Chelsea 'hold fresh contract talks with Antonio Rudiger, Cesar Azpilicueta'

Chelsea reportedly held fresh contract discussions with defenders Antonio Rudiger and Cesar Azpilicueta on Monday afternoon, as the Blues attempt to sign the pair to fresh deals.

Rudiger's future remains the subject of much speculation, with a number of clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, said to be interested in signing the Germany international on a free transfer.

Azpilicueta is also out of contract at Stamford Bridge this summer, and Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are thought to be in the running for the Spaniard's signature.

However, according to Goal, there is now 'growing positivity' at the club when it comes to the defensive pair, with fresh talks between the parties being held on Monday afternoon.

The report claims that Rudiger is demanding to be placed among the top earners at the club, while Azpilicueta wants another long-term deal at the club and also to be guaranteed an important role in the team moving forward.

Andreas Christensen is also currently free to hold talks with foreign clubs over a pre-contract, with Chelsea struggling to reach an agreement with the Denmark international over an extension.