Madrid, Jun 2 (IANS): Real Madrid have confirmed the long-awaited signing of Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger on a four-year deal, the club said in a statement on Thursday.

The 29-year-old will move to the Bernabeu on a free transfer after he turned down the Blues' attempts to renew his contract. Real Madrid said they will present Rudiger as their player at a ceremony on June 20.

Writing on Twitter, Rudiger said, "I'm proud to announce that I'll be joining Real Madrid. I'm super excited for all the challenges ahead and can't wait to play my first games for this huge club."

Rudiger lifted the FA Cup, Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup with Chelsea, playing a crucial role in all those triumphs at the heart of our defence. He has also featured in the Champions League Team of the Season in both of the last two seasons.

The 29-year-old was also an important figure in the dressing room with his leadership and passion, while his dedication and desire to win never faltered, even when it became clear he would be leaving the club this summer.

Rudiger's disappointment was obvious when defeats to Real Madrid in the Champions League and to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup finals denied him the chance to say goodbye with one more piece of silverware.

"Chelsea Football Club thanks Toni for his contribution to our success over the last five years and wishes him well in his future career. He departs with 203 appearances and 12 goals to his name, in that time establishing himself as one of the most passionate characters to represent the club in recent memory," Chelsea said in a statement.