Antonio Rudiger arrival effectively ends Andreas Christensen Chelsea hopes
The latest transfer news suggests that Chelsea are on the verge of signing Antonio Rudiger. Andreas Christensen will probably now head for the exit.
Chelsea continue to be linked with a number of players in the transfer market. One story that appears to be moving quite quickly regards Antonio Rudiger. The latest reports claim that a deal has been agreed, but the arrival of the German may effectively end Andreas Christensen’s hopes of first-team football.
Sky Sports states that the Blues have agreed a deal with Roma for the highly rated defender, worth around £35 million.
"Chelsea and Roma have agreed a deal for central defender Antonio Rudiger, Sky sources understand.Rudiger helped Germany win the Confederations Cup in Russia earlier this month. It is thought the player will take a medical in Los Angeles this week, with the transfer figure potentially rising to £34m."
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Rudiger has burst onto the scene in recent years. Having moved to Roma from Stuttgart two seasons ago, the 24-year-old has come on leaps and bounds. Now, he is widely regarded as one of the finest young defenders on the continent.
In that way, signing him would be a fantastic move for Chelsea. He is young, dynamic and proven, meaning that he can slot straight into the first team.
However, he could also bring an end to Christensen’s Chelsea dreams. Many fans have been calling for Antonio Conte to resist signing a defender this summer. Christensen has just returned from a two-year loan with Borussia Monchengladbach, where he has also developed immensely. The time is right for him to be promoted to the senior squad.
Rudiger’s arrival would make this extremely difficult, if not impossible. Christensen would be vying with the German, Gary Cahill, David Luiz and Cesar Azpilicueta for a starting role. Apart from the odd League Cup clash, it’s hard to see him playing over his colleagues.
With Inter Milan reportedly interested in signing the Dane, he may just push for a transfer should the Rudiger deal go through. At this point in his career, he desperately needs to continue enjoying regular football in a top league. Sitting on the bench will send him backwards.
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What do you think of the Rudiger move? Is it worth sidelining Christensen? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!