Chelsea: Rudiger extension talks signify a few things

Antonio Rudiger’s extension talks with Chelsea mean a few different things for both the defender and the club.

German centerback Antonio Rudiger has had a turbulent few years at Stamford Bridge. He’s battled a lot with injuries, had some poor spells, but also shown a lot of promise. Defensive struggles have led fans to calling for his exit—likely because he’s the oldest of the bunch. However, Chelsea seems to have an alternative plan.

Rudiger and the Blues are in talks to extend the 27-year-old’s contract. The defender’s current contract expires in the summer of 2022. Both sides held contract negotiations during Maurizio Sarri’s first few months and again in April, but a deal was not agreed to either time. Chelsea’s desire to extend his contract means a few different things.

First and foremost, it means the Blues are unlikely to get rid of any central defenders this summer. Frank Lampard and his staff still have yet to find the best centerback pairing, despite having four talented options at the back. Many believed Rudiger was the defender on the chopping block, but talks of an extension appear to have disproved that theory. Now, if a centerback leaves west London this summer, it’ll likely be Andreas Christensen or Kurt Zouma.

On that note, talks signify that despite poor form this season, Lampard still believes Rudiger can return to top form. His actions behind the scenes may warrant another shot at a starting role, especially after playing agent in the Blues’ most recent transfer saga with Timo Werner. His positive attitude and hard-working spirit undoubtedly make for a great locker room presence.

Rudiger’s contract talks will also impact Chelsea’s transfer business. After potentially re-signing the 27-year-old, Chelsea isn’t going to chase another centerback unless there’s a drastic change in the team’s approach. The Blues get Ethan Ampadu back from loan this summer, so if Lampard needs another option in addition to what he already has at the back, the youngster could stay at Stamford Bridge next season.

At the end of the day, an extension of Rudiger’s contract may not be about performance at all. With a deal expiring in two seasons, the resale value of Rudiger is dwindling. The post-Coronavirus football market is not a seller-friendly one, so it hardly makes sense to sell the German this summer. If Chelsea waits 12 months, Rudiger will only have one-year remaining and the Blues risk losing him on a free transfer the following season. Extending him allows Chelsea flexibility despite the situation.

Regardless of the club’s intentions, it’s difficult to question its motives. Rudiger has proven himself to be a talented defender in years past. If the transfer rumors thus far represent Lampard’s attitude towards team selection, he’s all business. Personal beliefs on Rudiger’s performance aside, put your trust in the gaffer.