Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger makes his final decision following Man Utd talks
According to rumours, Manchester United were turned down by Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger after making an approach for the defender.
Rudiger, 29, is one of United’s defensive targets when the summer transfer window opens, and his contract at Stamford Bridge expires at the end of the season.
The two sides are thought to have already held preliminary talks about a prospective Rudiger transfer at Old Trafford.
The Manchester Evening News, however, reports that Rudiger is set to reject United’s efforts because he wants to join a club that is certain to qualify for the Champions League next season.
United are currently three points behind fourth-placed Tottenham, despite having played the same number of games and a slightly poorer goal difference.
The news will be devastating for United, who are in desperate need of a top central defender after conceding 44 goals in the Premier League so far this season.
United recruited Raphael Varane from Real Madrid last year, but the Frenchman has struggled to stay in the team since his arrival, with injuries causing him to miss 15 games this season.
Meanwhile, Harry Maguire has had a difficult season after a shorter summer break due to England’s run to the European Championship last year, as well as ailments that have hampered his form.
Eric Bailly and Phil Jones are out of favour and could be released at the end of the season, which is why a deal for Rudiger was considered at Old Trafford.
Rudiger expressed his pleasure at Chelsea in February, but stated that his wage expectations – reported to be £225,000 per week – must be met if he is to continue in west London.
He told The Athletic: “I feel great here, I have always said it. I think the way I play you can see that I’m happy here. But there are also other people who have to make decisions.”
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Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger makes his final decision following Man Utd talks
