Chelsea midfielder Jorginho believes “everyone at the club” will miss Antonio Rudiger.
The German international is expected to join Real Madrid on a free transfer after Thomas Tuchel confirmed the defender’s desire to depart.
Rudiger, who moved to Stamford Bridge from AS Roma in the summer of 2017, rejected an offer to become Chelsea’s highest paid defender in history.
An influential figure in the Champions League win last season, the 29-year-old has made 196 appearances during his time in west London and could yet add a second FA Cup to his trophy haul.
The Club World Cup. the Europa League and the UEFA Super Cup also sit on his honours list.
After struggling for game time under Frank Lampard, Tuchel’s arrival improved his compatriot’s fortunes and Rudiger has since established himself as one of Europe’s leading central defenders.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Jorginho said: “He’s been here a long time so if he leaves we are going to miss him.
“He’s a big personality and he’s helped us a lot.
“We’ve had amazing times here, he’s a good friend of mine so if he leaves, not just me but everyone at the club will miss him.”
When quizzed on what exactly the team would miss, Jorginho replied: “The craziness! He makes me laugh a lot and all his jokes and laughs. That’s the nice part.”