‘No one better’ – Chelsea sent double warning over looming transfer decision for ‘invaluable’ ace
Chelsea have been reminded that they must tie down the future of the “invaluable” Antonio Rudiger despite him being put into focus during their draw with Everton on Thursday.
Rudiger is approaching the final six months of his contract at Stamford Bridge. From January, he will be able to sign a pre-contract agreement with a foreign club. Losing him would be a major blow for Chelsea due to his form over the past year.
The 2017 signing from Roma had fallen out of favour under Frank Lampard. There were even rumours he would leave in the summer of 2020.
But in the end, the defender outlasted his manager. He has undergone a major resurgence under Thomas Tuchel. Now, he has reminded everyone why he is one of the Premier League’s elite defenders.
As such, he wants the wages of his new contract to reflect his status. Clubs like Real Madrid and PSG have been hovering in case Chelsea do not satisfy his demands.
Reports have hinted that Rudiger’s preference would be a move to Madrid. In the meantime, Chelsea must continue their own efforts to keep him.
During their 1-1 draw with Everton on Thursday, Rudiger was caught in a bit of a mix-up for the goal Chelsea conceded. It wasn’t entirely his fault, in all fairness. Therefore, two pundits reiterated how important it is for them to keep him.
Steve Sidwell told BT Sport (as transcribed by Football London): “He’s really stepped up to the plate not only defensively but on the ball as well.
“Some of the drives out for the ball to come out and start attacks for Chelsea. If they let him go, who do you replace him with? He’s invaluable.
“He can play passes forward. He ventures forward when he needs to.
“Defensively the last few games he’s slipped. He’s let runners go and lets his go of his position quite a lot. But when he’s on it, there’s no one better in the Premier League.”
Lescott agrees with ideal Rudiger scenario
Rudiger then earned praise from someone who used to play as a defender himself, ex-Manchester City man Joleon Lescott.
Lescott enthused about how much the Germany international “enjoys” the art of defending and his levels of consistency.
He said: “He’s one of the few defenders who you can tell actually enjoys defending. Being in the one vs one battle and physical side of the game.
“I think he’s right to be in this situation because when Frank Lampard was there, he couldn’t even get into the squad. So, the fact that he’s kept himself ready when Thomas Tuchel came in.
“He was ready to perform and has been consistent. He’s probably been their most consistent player since arriving. So, he deserves to be in this situation.
“I’m sure Chelsea are doing everything in their power to keep him.”
As things stand, though, they are yet to offer a wage package that Rudiger deems acceptable.
The 28-year-old has made 171 appearances across his Chelsea career, winning four trophies. This season, he has started all but one of their 17 Premier League matches so far.
He also has five Champions League appearances and one in the UEFA Super Cup to his name this term.
READ MORE: Former Chelsea manager wants to raid quartet – including one of Tuchel’s young guns
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