Antonio Rudiger has revealed that there was interest from Barcelona as he prepared to leave Chelsea.
The German international snubbed the chance to become the highest-paid defender in Stamford Bridge history before sealing a free transfer to Real Madrid.
All moves to convince the 29-year-old to stay put at the club proved abortive due to the sanctions imposed on former owner Roman Abramovich.
Having recovered from a difficult time under Frank Lampard, Rudiger went on to establish himself as one of Europe’s leading defenders, leading the West London giants to their second Champions League triumph in 2021.
Signing a four-year-contract in the Spanish capital, the former AS Roma defender had previously revealed contact from Madrid started back in the autumn, describing discussions with Carlo Ancelotti as “welcoming”.
Speaking at his official unveiling in Madrid at the club’s Valdebebas training ground, Rudiger revealed rivals Barcelona had attempted to sign him.
“The first time I got in contact, not really me, my agent, was early September,” said Rudiger, who will wear the squad No.22.
“The second time, I spoke with Mr Ancelotti, was in April. That was the most important moment. That was when I made my choice. I wanted to play for this club under him.
“There was interest from Barcelona but I told my brother, it’s Real or nothing.”
