Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger is reportedly in talks with Paris Saint-Germain over a possible move in the summer when his contract runs out.
According to a report from Sport BILD’s Christian Falk, PSG have held talks with the representative of Chelsea defensive mainstay Antonio Rudiger to explore the possibility of a transfer in the summer window.
Rudiger has been with Chelsea since 2017, having arrived from Italian giants AS Roma. It hasn’t always been smooth-sailing for the German international at Stamford Bridge. But he has come into his own under the tutelage of compatriot Thomas Tuchel since the turn of the year, firmly establishing himself as one of the best defenders in the Premier League and possibly Europe on current form.
Rudiger played a big role in Chelsea’s UEFA Champions League and UEFA Super Cup triumph earlier this year, while he has been crucial to their strong start to the ongoing campaign as well. Despite his standing within the squad as one of the leaders of the team, the 28-year-old’s future in west London has become a topic of intense speculation.
Rudiger is in the final year of his contract with Chelsea. And even though the Blues are intent on tying him down to a new deal, the disparity in the wages demanded and being offered has led to talks not progressing as per plans. Alerted by the development, a plethora of top clubs from Europe are circling to sign him.
Recent reports indicated that Real Madrid had the signing of the former Roma star tied down. However, things might not be as advanced they seem like, as PSG have also now made their presence felt in the pursuit of the 28-year-old defender.
The report from Falk states that Les Parisiens are in talks with Rudiger’s camp over a possible Bosman move at the end of the season. It is also claimed that Sahr Senesie, the brother and agent of the Chelsea star, even met with PSG director Leonardo in France a few weeks ago to discuss the transfer, although the defender is yet to make a decision.
PSG’s interest in Rudiger does not come as a surprise as their free-transfer signing of Sergio Ramos has proven to be a huge dud, with the Real Madrid legend struggling with injuries. With the likes of Thilo Kehrer and Abdou Diallo not performing consistently enough, the pressure is on the first-choice duo of Marquinhos and Presnel Kimpembe to deliver week in week out.
So, signing someone like Rudiger could add that extra bit of defensive steel for the French capital outfit, while his leadership and winning mentality would make him a major asset. Interestingly enough, though Chelsea have identified PSG star Marquinhos as a potential candidate to replace the German international, should he not sign a new deal.
