Thomas Tuchel, the head coach of Chelsea, has revealed that Antonio Rudiger has informed him of his intention to leave Stamford Bridge on a free transfer.
The future of the Germany international has been well documented throughout this campaign, with the 29-year-old naturally attracting a lot of attention.
While Chelsea has always been interested in retaining the player's services, recent government-imposed restrictions have prevented the Blues from negotiating new terms.
Tuchel confirmed on Sunday that one of his star players, Rudiger, would be leaving West London after reports earlier this week suggested he had decided to leave the club.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Tuchel stated: "The current situation is that he wishes to leave the club. In a private conversation, he informed me of this. We gave everything we had - both myself and the club - but we couldn't fight because of the actions." Without the sanctions, we would be able to fight on, but our hands are tied. We don't take anything personally. It is his choice.
He is a key player and will remain so until the end of the season. However, it is disappointing. We will miss him greatly. In the locker room, he inspires confidence. The kind that everyone fears, but the kind that can play 50-55 games at a high level. He has been a standout defender for me over the last year and a half. Then we'll have to come up with another solution."
Rudiger, who was injured and did not play in Chelsea's 1-0 win over West Ham United on Sunday, has made 47 starts for the Blues this season across all competitions.
Real Madrid are said to be the favorites to complete a deal for the centre-back.