The 23 years old German defender in his recent interview before AS Roma’s clash with Austria Vienna in Europa League opened up on the rumors linking him with a move to Stamford Bridge
“There’s a lot of talk about changes in the squad, but I’m really happy to play for Roma. I’m not bothered about transfer rumors,” he said.
“In the end, I’m happy to be healthy again. It wasn’t easy but now I can play again.
“I’m ready to play [against Austria Vienna]. I hope for the best, but it’s the coach’s decision in the end.”
Rudiger has been a real case of interest for Chelsea manager Antonio Conte since his arrival at Stamford Bridge to fix Chelsea’s shoddy defense.
Chelsea’s dismal last season was mostly down to their defensive inabilities and Antonio Conte tried to fix it by targeting certain defensive players. Antonio Rudiger was one of their prime targets along with Conte’s former Juventus and Italian National team general, Leonardo Bonucci but Juventus kept hold of their prized possession and an injury to Rudiger before the summer transfer window made Chelsea pull their hands off him and Conte had to settle for a deadline day return of Brazilan centre back, David Luiz.
Conte is known to be an admirer of 23 years old German who had a good last season with Serie A giants, AS Roma. Rudiger is also drawing interest from other European giants and Chelsea will have to battle with their Premier League rivals, Manchester United, who are also looking to land the defender at Old Trafford.
It is reported that Chelsea will have to splash out more than $45m to get the signature of German International who hasn’t yet opened up about his willingness to move away from the Italian capital but things could change very quickly if Chelsea shows some real intent to get him.
Dubbed as one of the best talents in world football right now, Rudiger will be a subject of interest for many clubs in the next summer.
If Chelsea are looking to mount a serious title challenge and to make the most of their great start to the new season then they should try to make a move for a defender in the upcoming January transfer window to strengthen their squad which looks quite bleak at back.
With Kurt Zouma still sidelined due to the injury he suffered last season and John Terry, Branislav Ivanovic & Gary Cahill at the downhill of their career it is important for Chelsea to make a move keeping the future in sight and Antonio Rudiger fits the bill completely.
