Over the past few years, Chelsea have parted ways with players who have done well elsewhere. In some cases, they have brought them back, but the results have not met expectations. The return of Romelu Lukaku has to fall under that category. That has not stopped the media from linking the Blues with a number of their former stars.
Incidentally, one of them could be available as a free agent in the near future. Although, there is the opportunity to sign him before that as well, if the right offer is presented to Real Madrid.
Of course, we are talking about none other than Antonio Rudiger. The German centre-back helped Real Madrid to Champions League glory upon joining the club and has remained a starter for the club. That being said, his current contract expires next summer, and it looks like some of Europe's very best are interested.
As reported by SPORT, Chelsea are interested in reuniting with Rudiger. PSG have shown strong interest in the transfer as well. Luis Enrique believes he would bring experience, leadership, and stability to the defence and is keen to add the German player to his squad. Galatasaray want him as well, while the German centre-back is being monitored by Al Nassr and Al Hilal.
Chelsea want to bring back former player in blockbuster return
If Chelsea do sign Rudiger, it would be a similar move to the one they pulled off for Thiago Silva. The Blues have rarely signed veterans lately, but the new ownership might be starting to understand the importance of experience after spending more than a billion pounds almost exclusively on youngsters just to bring about mediocre results.
There would be both pros and cons to signing Rudiger. He is proven in the Premier League and at the top of his game, many considered him the best centre-back in all of Europe.
But on the other hand, Rudiger's game is based a lot on his physical attributes. They are going to decline with age. He is not a technically flawless defender like Silva and is going to turn 33 years old in March. Is this the right time to bring him back?