Report: Chelsea’s potential new owners determined to keep ‘outstanding’ player at the Bridge next season

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A few of those readying bids to buy Chelsea reportedly want Antonio Rudiger to remain on board with their new project.

According to 90min, a collection of the interested suitors hope to persuade the German international to renew his contract.

Rudiger rocked by Roman’s situation

Rudiger’s continuation at Stamford Bridge is in even more doubt than ever before, following the UK government’s punishment of Roman Abramovich.

The defender’s contract expires in the summer, with a wage increase the deciding factor between him staying and leaving.

Now the club cannot guarantee any kind of cash reward until Abramovich’s successor is installed, the likelihood of losing Rudiger has risen dramatically again.

His departure would certainly dent Chelsea, considering how crucial he has become to Thomas Tuchel’s operation.

“I thought Rudiger was outstanding. How he dealt with Mo Salah, who I think is the best player in the world at the moment,” said Joe Cole about the Rudiger after the Carabao Cup final.

New owners, new priorities

Whoever takes over from the sanctioned Russian ruler will want to immediately get on the supporter’s good side.

They could certainly ensure this by tying Rudiger down for at least another season, something a selection of the prospective buyers are apparently planning on doing.

But they will have to act fast, as the centre-back is able to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with a rival team.

Unfortunately, nothing is moving very quickly right now in terms of installing a fresh financial face at Chelsea.

Those seemingly intrigued by taking over Abramovich’s empire have until Friday to submit their final offers.

Even then, the decision on who will take the reigns won’t be made overnight.

Once they are fitted at the summit of Chelsea’s hierarchy, the transition process may also take some time.

Especially for the businessmen or groups who have no experience in leading a sports organisation, let alone a football one.

Just make sure Rudiger is near the top of the agenda, and you will get on fine.

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