Antonio Rudiger is nearing a move to Premier League champions Chelsea

Chelsea and Roma have agreed a deal for central defender Antonio Rudiger, Sky sources understand.

Rudiger helped Germany win the Confederations Cup in Russia earlier this month. It is thought the player will take a medical in Los Angeles this week, with the transfer figure potentially rising to £34m.

The 24-year-old moved to Roma from Stuttgart initially on a season-long loan deal in August 2015 before making the move permanent the following season for 7.6m.

Rudiger represented Germany at this year's Confederations Cup in Russia

He made 40 appearances last season for Roma in all competitions, helping the Italian club to a second-place finish in Serie A behind champions Juventus and automatic qualification for this season's Champions League.

Personal terms still have to be discussed but it appears that Rudiger will become a Chelsea player ahead of the new Premier League season.

Chelsea are in need of defensive reinforcements following the departures of Nathan Ake and John Terry to Bournemouth and Aston Villa respectively.

Antonio Conte's Chelsea will open the defence of their domestic league title against Burnley at Stamford Bridge on August 12.

Chelsea have not commented on the latest developments.

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