On the latest episode of The Rumour Review podcast, Pete O’Rourke was joined by football agent Jamie Holsgrove to discuss the latest transfer rumours in the Premier League.
One topic of discussion on the podcast was Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger.
The German international has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur recently, as they perhaps struggle to get a deal for Inter defender Milan Skriniar over the line (per Fabrizio Romano).
The former Roma man is yet to make an appearance for Frank Lampard’s side this season, perhaps following the Blues’ signing of Thiago Silva earlier in the window, and therefore it would perhaps not be a surprise to see the centre-back depart Stamford Bridge before the transfer window shuts next week.
Here’s what O’Rourke had to say about Spurs’ reported interest in Rudiger during the podcast:
“A strange one for me because I think, on his day, Rudiger is probably Chelsea’s best centre-back.
“So, to get rid of him, with their defensive issues, doesn’t add up to me but obviously, something has happened.
“The Tottenham one, I just can’t see this one for the life of me even though [there’s] lots of rumours about it. Why would Chelsea strengthen one of their rivals, like Jose Mourinho wouldn’t do?
“Rudiger, top-class player for me. I think if he were to go to Tottenham he would definitely improve their defence.”
TIF Thoughts…
Rudiger averaged a 6.77 rating for Chelsea across his 20 appearances in the Premier League last season, which was better than the likes of Eric Dier and Davinson Sanchez so you can understand O’Rourke’s point that the £36 million-rated man would improve Mourinho’s defence.
If Spurs can't sign Skriniar, would you be happy if they signed Rudiger?
Yes
No
The Lilywhites managed just eight clean sheets in the top flight last season, and have also lost Jan Vertonghen from their squad after he departed on a free transfer during the summer.
So, if they cannot complete a move for Skriniar, perhaps Rudiger wouldn’t be the worst signing for the North London club to make.