Paul Merson insists that Antonio Rudiger’s future will lie away from Chelsea.
Rudiger, 28, is currently due to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season when his contract expires.
Sky Sports Germany reporter Max Bielefeld claims the defender is keen to stay at Chelsea. However, there has been no movement lately on contract negotiations about a new Blues deal.
The £100,000-a-week centre-back continues to be a key figure on the pitch despite the backdrop of his contract situation.
Pundit Merson is adamant that Rudiger’s future would’ve been resolved by now if he were staying.
“Chelsea are going to miss Antonio Rudiger when he goes because it will take £60-70m to replace him. Rudiger is definitely leaving. If he wanted to sign a new contract he would have done it by now. There’s no chance he stays now,” he wrote.
Rudiger exit would be diabolical for Chelsea
In fairness, there are plenty of Blues supporters still hoping a new improved contract can be resolved with their star defender Rudiger.
The quick centre-half has become such a vital figure in the back three under manager Thomas Tuchel.
He deserves to be spoken about as one of Europe’s elite defenders during the 2021 calendar year, with his stunning form coinciding with Tuchel’s appointment.
The lively character is aggressive, strong and tactically astute with his defensive work. Also, he’s a great passer and has introduced some trademark dribbling to his game.
If he exits, Merson is spot on. It may take an astronomical fee to find a replacement.
Levi Colwill is one talented defender thriving out on loan right now with Huddersfield Town, but lining him up to replace Rudiger would be too much for the 18-year-old. It would take another senior figure to fill the shoes of Rudiger.
Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Twitter account here.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
