Thomas Tuchel provides Antonio Rudiger contract update amid exit talk

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is hopeful that his club "find a solution" when it comes to a potential new contract for central defender Antonio Rudiger.

The Germany international has been a key player for the Blues since Tuchel's arrival and has not missed a single minute of the club's 2021-22 campaign to date.

Rudiger's contract at Stamford Bridge is due to expire next June, though, and the centre-back is believed to be considering leaving the London club on a free transfer.

Tuchel has lavished praise on Rudiger and remains hopeful that all parties are able to come to an agreement in the coming weeks.

"I hope they find a solution but it is not only between coaches and players and what we wish for. It is between the club, the player and the agent," Tuchel told reporters.

"He has been excellent, a very consistent player on a high level, calm and focused. Everything is in place but sometimes players need a bit longer. It is nothing new from our side."

Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are both said to be keeping a close eye on developments.