Newcastle United target Antonio Rudiger will be leaving Chelsea this summer.
That’s according to Blues boss Thomas Tuchel, who confirmed the news to Sky Sports following Sunday’s 1-0 win over West Ham United.
“The situation is that he wants to leave the club,” Tuchel said.
“He informed me of this in a private talk.
“We gave everything – me and the club – but we could not fight anymore because of the actions. Without the sanctions we would at least be able to carry on fighting, but our hands are tied. We don’t take it personally. It is his decision.”
These comments could interest Newcastle, who were linked with the German defender earlier in the year.
The Telegraph claimed in March that Eddie Howe’s side had entered the race to sign Rudiger on a free and could challenge Real Madrid. He was a blockbuster target at the time, and the interest spoke volumes about the Magpies’ renewed reputation.
But while Rudiger will definitely leave Stamford Bridge, it looks like Real Madrid are winning this race.
Antonio Rudiger appears to be heading to Real Madrid, not Newcastle
According to Fabrizio Romano, the 29-year-old has reached an agreement with Real Madrid. He’ll reportedly sign a four-year deal with Los Blancos.
He’ll earn huge money at the Bernaebu, surpassing the £230,000-a-week Chelsea were willing to pay him.
When you see that figure, Newcastle never had a chance of signing Rudiger. Yes, we do have incredible wealth, but it would be unwise to smash our wage structure for one player. It sets an unnecessary precedent and could create issues with current players and possible signings.
With Real Madrid in the mix, Newcastle never really stood a chance. They are the biggest club in the world.
Newcastle will have to look elsewhere for a new centre-back this summer, but that’s okay. While Rudiger is a sensational defender, he never felt like he’d be a good fit for the Magpies.
The new owners have already proven how vital it is we sign the right characters as well as the right talents. Luckily we’ve done just that so far, with all of our new recruits impressing since their January arrival.
Rudiger is leaving Chelsea, but he won’t be coming to St James’ Park. And that’s fine.
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