Italian giants finding it ‘too difficult’ to sign 28-year-old Chelsea superstar

Transfer News: AC Milan finding it tough to sign Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger

According to TuttoMercatoWeb (h/t Football.london), AC Milan have found it complicated to lure Antonio Rudiger from Chelsea while also holding an interest in his teammate, Andreas Christensen.

Antonio Rudiger has been one of the most consistent players for Chelsea. The German defender played a significant role in last season’s Champions League triumph for us. Under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel, the 28-year-old has developed himself into one of the best defenders in England.

The former AS Roma defender has made 23 appearances across all competitions for Thomas Tuchel’s team during this campaign, highlighting his importance for the side.

Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger was on the radar of AC Milan.
Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger was on the radar of AC Milan.

Rudiger has been the headliner in recent times- and not just because of his performances but for his off-field transfer saga. The German defender hasn’t penned down a new deal yet and would be eligible to negotiate a pre-contract with a foreign team in January. Tottenham Hotspur continue to be linked with a move for the defender.

Milan were interested in signing the 28-year-old, but it seems the Rossoneri has found it ‘too difficult’ to strike a deal, thus taking a back seat in the race. 

Antonio Rudiger’s importance in the current Chelsea team is monumental. Even during the game last week against Leeds United, the defender helped us earn two decisive penalties that helped Thomas Tuchel’s side secure a significant win. His contributions at both ends of the pitch were immense that day.

Chelsea complete Antonio Rudiger Signing
Chelsea signed Rudiger in 2017 from AS Roma.

Chelsea are struggling when it comes to agreeing on a renewal deal for four of their central defenders. As things stand, all four of them, including Rudiger, would be able to leave the club for free in the summer. Thus, the most crucial task for the board is to find a way to keep hold of the senior players. 

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The Blues would find it difficult to find someone like Rudiger in the current transfer market. That would especially be the case if we get nothing in transfer fees for the German, meaning there wouldn’t be a direct influx of cash to spend on a potential replacement.

So, with Milan now seemingly backing out, it remains to be seen which destination Rudiger chooses to play his football at beyond the summer of 2022.