Bayern Munich chief plays down Antonio Rudiger transfer rumours with Chelsea man available on a free next summer

BAYERN MUNICH sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic has poured cold water on reports suggesting the club wants to sign Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger.

Rudiger's contract expires in June and the defender has yet to reach a new deal with the Blues, which means he could leave Stamford Bridge on a free transfer next summer.

The centre-back has attracted interest from various clubs including, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Bayern.

In fact, the Bavarians' manager Julian Nagelsmann added fuel to speculation when he praised the Germany international's 'aggressiveness' and labelled him a 'decisive' player.

But Salihamidzic has distanced the German champions from the 28-year-old, claiming Nagelsmann already has enough centre-backs.

The Bayern chief told DAZN via : "It's not OK when we talk about players who are with other clubs.

"Julian said that about him in the press conference, but he's a coach who sees a lot of players - so why shouldn't he rate an international and speak about his strengths?

"We are really well filled in the centrE-back position.

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"We have strengthened ourselves very well and brought in a top player in Dayot Upamecano, Lucas Hernandez is here, Tanguy Nianzou is there, Benjamin Pavard can also play inside - we really are very, very well staffed."

Rudiger has been a key man under Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel and is reportedly in no rush to make a decision on his future.

However, the defender insists he has not held talks with any club other than the West Londoners.

Rudiger told SID this week: "It wasn't even two months ago [that talks with Chelsea started].

"For me this will now be the most important decision in my professional career, so I won't rush anything."

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