Real Madrid veteran could be playing his final season with the club – report

Real Madrid veteran could be playing his final season with the club – report According to a report from Bernabeu Digital , Antonio Rudiger could be entering the final months of his time at Real Madrid. The German centre-back recently extended his contract with the club by one additional season following a period of negotiations, but he now appears set to bring his spell at the Santiago Bernabéu to an end next summer. His renewal earlier this year was signed until 2027, and the current situation suggests that there is no intention to extend the agreement again once the season comes to an end. A final season under Mourinho? Rudiger remains part of a defence that has undergone significant changes over the past few transfer windows. Real Madrid have brought in players such as Ibrahima Konate, who has forged a partnership with Dean Huijsen, who has rediscovered his form under Jose Mourinho. Rudiger’s last season? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) Rudiger, meanwhile, is approaching the season with a different role to the one he had in previous campaigns. His experience, character and leadership remain important qualities within the dressing room, but competition for places has increased considerably following the arrival of new centre-backs. So far, he has played only 216 minutes this season, starting two matches. With Eder Militao close to returning from injury, competition will further increase. A new centre-back signing in the works Furthermore, Real Madrid are already tracking the market for further defensive reinforcements next year. Mourinho already wanted another centre-back this past summer but Raul Asencio’s failed exit meant nobody was signed. Real Madrid are tracking Finn Jeltsch. (Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images) However, the club remain on the lookout for players, with German starlet Finn Jeltsch being closely monitored . This could be indicative that Rudiger’s time at the club could be coming to an end once his current contract runs out. For Mourinho, having Rudiger available provides an experienced option with extensive knowledge of the club and the know-how of playing in high-pressure matches. However, he will turn 34 years old before the end of the season, and come the end of the season, when his contract expires, Real Madrid could decide to part ways with the seasoned campaigner.