Real Madrid transfer news: Key man 'considered' untouchable amid Saudi interest

The Germany international is believed to be the subject of interest from Saudi Arabia, with recent reports claiming that Al-Ittihad are willing to pay the 31-year-old a huge salary to move to the division.

However, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid are not willing to consider a sale, while Rudiger is also not interested in leaving the capital giants at this stage of his career.

"Despite reports on huge proposal from Al Ittihad, Toni Rudiger is not even considering to leave Real Madrid this summer," Romano posted on X.

"Full focus on Real Madrid project, no plans to join Saudi Pro League now despite interest. Feeling mutual as Real consider Rudiger untouchable."

Rudiger 'set' to stay amid Saudi talk

Rudiger made the move to Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer of 2022, and he has represented the capital outfit on 101 occasions in all competitions, scoring four goals and registering three assists in the process.

The centre-back has already won six trophies during his time at Bernabeu, including a La Liga and Champions League double during the 2023-24 campaign.

Rudiger has been a vital player for Real Madrid during his two seasons at the club, making 53 appearances in all competitions in 2022-23 before featuring on 48 occasions last term.

Long-term knee injuries for Eder Militao and David Alaba made Rudiger an even more important figure for Los Blancos last season, and he is again set to be a starter in the coming campaign.

Will Real Madrid sign a centre-back this summer?

Nacho's departure on a free transfer at the end of June has left Real Madrid a player down at the back.

Los Blancos had been heavily linked with 18-year-old Leny Yoro, but the centre-back completed a move to Manchester United from Lille.

Alaba may not be available for selection until the start of 2025, which would leave Militao and Rudiger as Real Madrid's only senior options in the middle of their defence, with Jesus Vallejo unlikely to receive too much action in the coming campaign.

As a result, it would be a surprise if Real Madrid did not sign a centre-back before the transfer window closes, with Al-Nassr's Aymeric Laporte said to be a target.

Laporte's asking price could be a problem, though, as Al-Nassr will allegedly not let him leave the club unless they receive an offer in the region of €27m (£22.7m).