New Real Madrid signing Antonio Rudiger reveals other European giant he REJECTED transfer to after leaving Chelsea

ANTONIO RUDIGER has revealed that he rejected Barcelona in order to sign for Real Madrid.

The German defender was unveiled by Los Blancos yesterday after completing his free transfer from Chelsea.

The 29-year-old snubbed an extension at Stamford Bridge in order to run down his contract and move to the Bernabeu for nothing.

Rudiger was linked with a whole host of clubs prior to his exit, with Premier League rivals Manchester United and Bayern Munich also linked.

It then emerged that Barcelona were jostling with Madrid for his signature - but now he has admitted that he knocked back the Catalans as Real were the only club for him.

Speaking at his official welcoming ceremony, he said: “It is a very special day.

“I would like to thank my parents, because without them I could not be here. They have always supported me in my life.

“I also want to thank the president for giving me the opportunity to play for this club. And I want to thank the Madrid fans for their welcome, I can promise that I will give it my all.

“I want to win all the titles we can. Hala Madrid and nothing more.”

Then came his Nou Camp confession, saying: “There was interest from Barcelona.

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“I told my agent that it was Madrid or nothing.”

Rudiger then revealed how Madrid made their move for him early as they made their interest known almost a year ago.

He added: “The first time they contacted my agent was in September of last year.

“The second time, in April, when I spoke with [Carlo] Ancelotti.

“This was the most important moment as it was at this moment that I decided to play for Madrid.”