Antonio Rudiger
Rudiger would prefer to stay in Germany, despite Chelsea interest. Getty

Chelsea are interested in signing Stuttgart's highly rated defender Antonio Rudiger, according to the player's agent.

While injury limited to him just 19 Bundesliga appearances last season, Rudiger's growing reputation in Germany has seen him linked with moves away from the Mercedes-Benz Arena.

German daily Bild suggests Wolfsburg – who have exhibited their ambition in the transfer market over the last six months with moves for Andre Schurrle and Max Kruse – have already agreed terms with the player.

Stuttgart are reportedly holding out for a fee of €18m (£12.7m), a value Chelsea would have no problem meeting. But while the Blues have shown an interest, the 22 year old's agent Sahr Senesie claims the player would prefer to remain in Germany.

"I know of interest from Wolfsburg and Chelsea," Senesie told German magazine Kicker, before adding, "Antonio would prefer to stay in Germany".

Chelsea have endured a quiet start to the summer transfer window, with the only significant piece of business being Petr Cech leaving the club to join London rivals Arsenal. His departure is likely to pave the way for the arrival of another goalkeeper to act as Thibaut Courtois' understudy, with Stoke City shotstopper Asmir Begovic tipped as the man to fill that role.

The Daily Telegraph suggests Jose Mourinho's side will increase their offer to £8m, but believe Stoke will hold firm in their demand that they receive one of Chelsea's youngsters on loan as part of the deal. Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Patrick Bamford are two possible targets.

Chelsea are also understood to be close to confirming a deal for Radamel Falcao. The Colombia international, who endured a disappointing year on loan from Monaco at Manchester United last season, will join up with the club ahead of their pre-season tour of US, according to The Guardian.