ANKARA

German defender Antonio Rudiger is set to join Real Madrid for the next four years, the Spanish football club said on Thursday.

"Real Madrid C.F. have reached an agreement to sign Antonio Rudiger, who joins the club on a four-year deal," the club said in a statement.

The Whites added that Rudiger will be "unveiled as a Real Madrid player on Monday 20 June."

Rudiger said on Twitter that he is "proud" to announce his move to Real Madrid from England's Chelsea. "... I'm super excited for all the challenges ahead and can't wait to play my first games for this huge club (Real Madrid)," the 29-year-old said.

Rudiger joined Chelsea in 2017 and his contract at the Blues will expire in June.

The German international made 203 appearances to score 12 goals for Chelsea. He won the 2019 UEFA Europa League, and 2021 UEFA Champions League and UEFA Super Cup the same year with the London club.

Rudiger also helped Chelsea claim the FIFA Club World Cup, and English FA Cup.