The latest on Chelsea's Antonio Rudiger as pair of defenders wait in the wings

Rudiger keen to stay, but at a cost

Chelsea and Antonio Rudiger have been at something of a contract standoff since the start of the season, with the German defender into his last 12 months at Stamford Bridge as it stands.

Now, as per German outlet Bild, Bayern Munich are interested in the defender, and can “easily” pay the 10 million pound salary that the 28 year old German defender is demanding.

🚨 Chelsea’s hopes of retaining Antonio Rüdiger have taken a dent, with Bayern Munich reportedly willing to give the defender a £200,000-a-week deal to move to Bavaria.

(Source: BILD) pic.twitter.com/ULWoNRkZdY

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) November 18, 2021

However, there is a major sticking point. The report outlines that Rudiger would rather stay in West London, but only if they can splash out to keep him at the club, something that the fans are keen to see.

Another day goes by without Chelsea offering Rudiger THAT contract. Just give him what he wants please. Rudiger is the best in the business. Give him it all!

— George Benson (@MrGeorgeBenson) November 16, 2021

Chelsea, meanwhile, have proved far less keen to increase his wages to the German’s liking, meaning that he will likely depart the club come the summer, with January pre-contract talks with other clubs set to prove crucial in that regard.

Blues line up pair of defenders

So, who could replace Rudi? Well, if reports are to be believed, Chelsea have already lined up a pair of defenders as potential replacements. The first comes in the form of Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana, who 101 revealed would be keen on a move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have revived their interest in Wesley Fofana and are in contact again with the Leicester City defender. (@Santi_J_FM)https://t.co/jNB6ciQZnb

— Get French Football News (@GFFN) November 17, 2021

Alternatively, Chelsea could look to raid Italian giants Juventus for Mattijs de Ligt.

Mino Raiola refused to rule out a summer move for his client, while Italian outlet tuttosport (via The Mirror) claim that Chelsea are best placed to get a deal done should he become available.

De Ligt’s agent not ruling out transfer amid links with Juventus star https://t.co/nQAhH3hD5R

— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) November 17, 2021

Would either of these additions make up for the loss of Rudiger on a free?

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