Manchester United and Barcelona will step up their attempts this week to capture Chelsea player Antonio Rudiger
As reported by The Sun, Manchester United and Barcelona will step up their efforts this week to broker a transfer for Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger this coming summer. They have chosen to adopt this position after his team’s recent elimination from the Champions League.
Rudiger has fewer than six months remaining on his current deal. There have been no indications that he will be offered an extension at this point. The Blues are anxious to lock him down with a new contract. But they would have to contend with several other clubs that were also showing interest in signing him. Furthermore, he has the legal ability to enter into a pre-contract deal with international teams. Thus, making things tough for Thomas Tuchel’s team in the process.
Previously, it was stated that the German did not want to make a decisive choice on his future while he was still competing in the Champions League. Now that the West London team has been eliminated from the tournament, clubs such as Manchester United and Barcelona are aiming to intensify their chase of the defender this week to complete a trade for him.
Is it possible for Chelsea to maintain Rudiger through this summer?
Despite the setback at the hands of Real Madrid, the 29-year-old’s performance in the second leg demonstrated why he is such an important element of Chelsea’s defence. He had recovered from his error in the first leg and had played an important role in laying the groundwork for a possible comeback. Unfortunately, they were unable to complete the task. It resulted in Chelsea’s knockout.
Given the state of our defensive alternatives, Chelsea simply cannot afford to lose the Premier League ace’s services. Andreas Christensen’s contract expires this summer. He seems to be on the verge of joining FC Barcelona this summer. If Chelsea were to lose another one of their outstanding center-backs, their defensive depth would be reduced.
Other choices are either too elderly or too young to take over as Chelsea’s backline’s leader. In the last years of their playing careers, Cesar Azpilicueta and Thiago Silva would have to be replaced at some point in their respective teams. While Trevoh Chalobah and Malang Sarr are capable alternatives, they would benefit from gaining valuable first-team experience before becoming regulars in the starting lineup.
The Blues would do well to keep Rudiger away from Manchester United and Barcelona. But given his contract status, there isn’t much Chelsea can do to prevent this. They would not be alone in their pursuit of the player. Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, and Real Madrid are all interested in bringing him. That demonstrates the significant obstacle Chelsea must overcome to maintain Rudiger in their possession.
What will Chelsea do?
The club can not participate in contract negotiations with the German international. This is due to the existing transfer restriction placed on the club. That might cause further difficulties for Chelsea. But supporters should hold that until anything formal is disclosed. There is a potential that he will extend his contract with Chelsea.
To see how rapidly a player’s career may turn around is really remarkable to behold. Under Frank Lampard, Rudiger did not achieve the same degree of reputation and success that he has now. But since Tuchel took over and implemented a three-man backline, Rudiger has emerged as one of the best defenders in England.
It would be a tragedy for him to depart after just one and a half years under the manager who guided him to such heights. But here isn’t anything to criticise about Rudiger’s mentality and work ethic. It has remained excellent throughout the season.
