BBC pundit ‘can’t be too surprised’ Newcastle want Chelsea defender Christian Rudiger

Add as preferred source on Google

Nedum Onuoha has claimed on BBC Radio 5 Live (02/04, 14:42) he ‘can’t be too surprised’ clubs are keen on reported Newcastle United transfer target Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea.

The one-time Premier League winner with Manchester City does not find it surprising one iota clubs are admiring the defender. Rudiger is out of contract at the end of the term and Chelsea cannot present the German with a new deal before a takeover at Stamford Bridge.

Rudiger has also proven his credentials as one of the Premier League’s elite centre-halves since Chelsea hired Thomas Tuchel, Onuoha claims. The 29-year-old has made 67 outings under his compatriot in west London, and lifted the 2020/21 Champions League together.

Newcastle are among the club’s supposedly keen to sign Rudiger in a free transfer once his Chelsea contract expires. The Daily Mail claim boss Eddie Howe is speaking with the club to determine a shortlist, and has mentioned the £29m former Roma enforcer in discussions.

But the board expect Rudiger will want to join a club playing in the Champions League next season. And The Sun note Manchester United and Juventus are also keen, with the Serie A side viewing the 50-cap international as the new Giorgio Chiellini to replace their club icon.

Onuoha ‘can’t be too surprised’ clubs eye Newcastle target Chelsea’s Rudiger

Additionally, Gazzetta dello Sport report Juventus have already agreed a four-year contract with Rudiger for this summer. He will also earn around £5.5m-a-year (£106k-a/w) in Turin.

Onuoha is confident Rudiger will have his choice of clubs if the Newcastle target leaves in a free transfer at the end of his Chelsea contract. And it should not be surprising that several of Europe’s elite are also keen, given what he has shown at the Bridge and with Germany.

“People will be looking at Antonio Rudiger, for sure,” he said. “He has done exceptionally well, especially since Thomas Tuchel has come into Chelsea.

“But this is a German international. You can’t be too surprised Rudiger is a good player. There will be Premier League interest.”

Newcastle may have the funds to tempt Rudiger to accept a transfer to Tyneside once his Chelsea contract expires. But his desire to play Champions League football next season will put the club’s Saudi-backed resecures and Howe’s pull to the test on a much higher level.