‘Still waiting’: Chelsea player wants to speak with club’s new owners, hasn’t committed his future yet

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Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Antonio Rudiger wants to speak with the new Chelsea owners before making a final decision about his future.

Speaking on his own podcast, Romano explained that the defender is willing to hold off conversations about his potential departure until Roman Abramovich’s replacement is installed.

Although Rudiger’s proposed actions are noble, he hasn’t given himself much time to sort out the uncomfortable situation hanging over his head.

The German’s contract expires in June, giving the owners a very small window to try and convince him to stay.

This window is gradually closing by the day, as fans continue to hold their breath over the identity of Abramovich’s successor.

Rudiger will not rush

Supporters and players still don’t know exactly when the big reveal will be, but there have been suggestions it should be before the end of the month.

Once the announcement happens, all manner of matters need to be sorted out.

One of the priorities will be organising the in-house furniture, which includes speaking to Rudiger and hopefully offering him a fresh deal.

“At the moment, Toni Rudiger is still waiting for Chelsea. So, this is good news for Chelsea fans,” said Romano on the centre-back’s current status.

“He is still waiting. We are at the end of April and he is still waiting to discuss with Chelsea’s new ownership to understand their plans, the contract, the proposal and then make a decision.

“This is very respectful from Toni Rudiger.”

Rule number one: make Rudiger happy

Whoever takes over from Abramovich would be wise to push hard for Rudiger’s long-term allegiance.

He is arguably Chelsea’s most important figure, both off and on the pitch.

Since Thomas Tuchel stepped into Frank Lampard’s managerial shoes, the German international has been a revelation.

Some would point to him being the best centre-half in Europe throughout Tuchel’s tenure.

Losing Rudiger as a free agent would almost certainly be damaging to the team and subsequently the new owner’s reign at the top.

To stop that happening, you have to stop Toni from leaving.  

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