Rudiger sends Mendy out the door

Real Madrid secured Rudiger at the earliest opportunity. The centre back will join Madrid on a free transfer on 1st July, on the expiration of his Chelsea contract.

This arrival changes Madrid's plans for the 22/23 season, with regards to how they lined up on the pitch last season. 'AS' reports that with Rudiger in the picture, Madrid are thinking of making Alaba their left back, a position that he played very well for many years at Bayern.

This would mean that Mendy would not start, as he did this season where he played 35 games, starting 32 of them. The Frenchman took the spot from Marcelo and could end up at a different club this summer.

'AS' notes that his departure is not a priority for Madrid, but 'Los Blancos' will listen to any offer that may come for him. If an acceptable offer comes in, he could leave.

Of course, Madrid won't sell him on the cheap. Whoever wants Mendy will have to show it with a tempting offer, as Madrid paid Lyon 48 million euros for him.

In the event of his sale, Madrid would have two options: turn to the market for a left back, or throw academy graduates Fran Garcia and Miguel Gutierrez into the role when Alaba needs rest.