Real Madrid will be busy this summer and one of the moves that currently looks possible is the exit of Antonio Rudiger. The veteran defender is entering the final five months of his contract and while he remains an important figure in the dressing room, there is no guarantee he will be offered a new deal.
Rudiger joined Real Madrid from Chelsea in 2022 and has been an excellent servant over the past four years, but injury problems have limited his playing time over the past 12 months. If he doesn’t stay fit between now and the end of the season, the club’s owners may well decide to let him go, especially given there are plans to sign two centre-backs in the summer.
advertise
If Rudiger does leave Real Madrid, a return to the Premier League is possible. Tottenham Hotspur are interested and CaughtOffside reports that West Ham United and Crystal Palace have held preliminary talks with the Germany international’s representatives.
Photo credit: Angel Martinez/Getty Images
Currently, Real Madrid’s central defenders include Rudiger, Dean Huizen, Raul Asensio, David Alaba and the injured Eder Militao. Alaba will leave at the end of the season and with Rudiger turning 33 next month, it would not be surprising to see him leave and find a younger player to replace him.
advertise
Rudiger’s predicament is a big one for Real Madrid
Just 18 months ago, Rudiger was one of the best centre-backs in the world, but his performance levels have understandably dropped since he began to suffer physical problems. It makes sense to keep him as an option, similar to Alaba’s current role, as he will be able to continue to provide valuable experience. However, club owners may not see it that way.