Chelsea could face battle to keep hold of Tuchel’s key man amid La Liga link

Thomas Tuchel has transformed Chelsea’s fortunes since taking charge in January.

The Blues were inconsistent under Frank Lampard but the German has turned them into a winning machine – most notably leading them to Champions League victory in May.

One of the reasons for the London club’s improvement is their mean defensive record.

Under Tuchel, Chelsea have kept 18 Premier League clean sheets in 29 matches with Edoaurd Mendy impressing between the sticks.

In front of the Senegalese goalkeeper, Antonio Rudiger’s Blues career has also been reignited.

The Germany international fell out of favour under Lampard but, since his fellow countryman took charge, he has become a key figure.

However, the 28-year-old is out of contract next summer and Marca claim that Real Madrid are lining up a swoop for the centre-back.

Rudiger has played in nine of Chelsea’s 10 Premier League matches this term.

The report, which states that Real also want to sign Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba, suggests that the Spanish giants will make their move to secure Rudiger on a pre-contract agreement in January.

With his performances over the last nine months, Chelsea fans will hope that an extension can be reached with the player they signed from AS Roma in 2017.

The defender has since made 162 appearances for the Blues, winning the Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and FA Cup.