Tottenham slam brakes on defender move after ‘huge’ development
Antonio Rudiger will be offered a “huge” new contract at Chelsea after Tottenham cooled their interest, according to a report.
Rudiger is about to enter the final 12 months of his contract at Stamford Bridge. His situation has led to links with Tottenham resurfacing. Spurs tried to sign him last year and have been backed to revive their interest. However, conflicting claims have now arisen.
The Sun, citing the Daily Mirror, reported recently that Tottenham could go back in for Rudiger. But now, Football Insider have denied those claims.
Instead, the website suggests that Chelsea will offer the defender a significant payrise as part of a new contract.
Rudiger has been in west London since 2017, when he joined from Roma. He lost his place in the lineup towards the end of Frank Lampard’s reign, but has regained it under Thomas Tuchel. Indeed, he was one of Chelsea’s most important players in the Champions League final, which they won.
Despite that, it was thought that talks over a new deal were still on hold. But now, they are set to reignite.
According to Football Insider, Chelsea will open talks with Rudiger in the coming weeks. He will be offered a “huge” new deal to secure his long-term future.
As a result, Tottenham will end their pursuit of the former Stuttgart centre-back. Instead, they will turn their attention to more realistic targets.
It remains a priority for Spurs to strengthen in defence ahead of next season. There have been rumours that Toby Alderweireld or Davinson Sanchez could leave. But even if they stay, they may need a more reliable main option.
Bale backs Rodon to reach heights
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Spurs may have one solution already at the club. Gareth Bale has tipped Wales teammate Joe Rodon to step up and fulfil his potential.
“It is great we have spent the past year having some good laughs,” the 31-year-old said (via Wales Online). “Ben [Davies] and I have the experience of [Euro] 2016 and Joe asks us all the time and he tells us what he was doing when he was watching and that he wanted to be part of a tournament and now he has a chance.
“He has come on leaps and bounds this season, made such a progression in his football, he has got better and better and looks like a real strong defender, sharp, and he is looking better and better.
“He will be one of the top defenders in the Premier League in years to come.
“This is another step in the right direction for him and something he wants to test himself with. I am sure he will do fantastic for us.”
But in the immediate future, Tottenham will still likely be going after a defensive signing.
READ MORE: Free agent’s ambition gives Tottenham renewed hope of summer deal
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