Manchester United efforts to persuade Antonio Rudiger to join them on a free transfer this summer look destined to fail – but the snub will reportedly not prevent Harry Maguire facing an embarrassing demotion from Erik ten Hag.
The powerful German defender has proven himself one of the world’s elite centre-halves over the past year. Flourishing under his compatriot, Thomas Tuchel, Rudiger is playing the best football of his career. But with less than three months left on his contract, the Blues facing losing their star.
Chelsea have tried to persuade Rudiger to extend his stay time and again, without success. That said, the sanctions imposed on the club – and the enforced end of Roman Abramovich’s reign – have not helped matters.
In the subsequent weeks, Rudiger has found himself linked with a plethora of clubs.
Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Juventus are all reportedly eyeing moves for Rudiger. Indeed, it was reported as early as Christmas that Rudiger was favouring a move to the Bernabeu.
However, with nothing formally announced, that has led to speculation that a move to United could be on the cards.
Furthermore, the Red Devils are reportedly looking to offer him an enormous signing-on fee to get the deal done.
And while the Manchester Evening News confirms talks have been held, it seems Rudiger has decided against a move to Old Trafford.
Antonio Rudiger opts against Man Utd transfer
Now the Daily Mirror claims that United’s struggles to secure a top-four finish this season has put Rudiger off the move.
In addition, the paper suggests the defender is warming to the idea of signing an extension at Chelsea.
The Blues have reached one Champions League final, one Carabao Cup final and two FA Cup finals since Tuchel’s appointment. They, of course, famously beat Manchester City in Porto to win the biggest prize of them all.
As such, Rudiger suggested recently he may yet stay at Stamford Bridge.
“I feel great here, I have always said…