Manchester United is no longer in the running to sign Chelsea center-back Antonio Rudiger.
The Chelsea defender’s contract is set to expire this summer, and the club has been unable to get a new deal due to the fines imposed on the club.
Man United has been heavily connected with the defender in recent weeks, with the club reportedly in contact with his agents to discuss a transfer to Old Trafford.
The 20-time English champions, though, are now ‘out of the race’ for his signature on a free transfer, according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The prime reason could be that the Red Devils are looking very likely to lose their spot in the Champions League next season. But, Riduger wants to play for a club that can actively compete in the UCL every season.
Toni Rüdiger has not signed with any club yet. Real Madrid are now the closest to find an agreement, talks ongoing for months. Real Madrid are on it since December. 🇩🇪 #RealMadrid
PSG, interested. Man United and Bayern, out of the race… and Chelsea situation still not changed. pic.twitter.com/r0Ja1yMFxO
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 23, 2022
Real Madrid is now the clear favourite to hire the German after his contract with the Blues expires. Bayern Munich is also out of the race.
Rudiger has demonstrated that he is most at ease in a back three, so it will be interesting to see if he can adjust to Carlo Ancelotti’s style. The Italian manager will be hoping Rudiger can show himself if he transfers to Spain, as Real Madrid typically plays a back four.
Rudiger may still sign a new contract with Chelsea if the takeover is resolved soon, but the uncertainty has encouraged him to hold talks with some of Europe’s biggest teams.
During the 2021-22 season, the 29-year-old was a crucial player for Chelsea, scoring five goals and providing four assists in 47 appearances across all competitions.
Manchester United is still on the lookout for a new centre-back this summer, with Pau Torres of Villarreal reportedly being analyzed by the club.
