Tottenham are slipping behind in the race to sign Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger, despite Fabio Paratici’s determination to get the transfer over the line, according to a report by Football Insider.
The Lowdown: Spurs’ Rudiger pursuit
With the 28-year-old’s Chelsea contract expiring in the summer, a number of clubs across Europe have been lining up offers to sign the German on a free transfer. Football.London has previously reported the likes of Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are all interested in securing the defender’s signature, and with less than six months left on his current deal, Rudiger is able to sign a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside of the Premier League.
Tottenham remain interested in the Germany international, with previous reports from Football Insider claiming that Paratici has been in constant contact with the player’s representatives over a potential summer move.
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The Latest: Spurs suffer blow in Rudiger race
A Tottenham source has informed Football Insider that the cost of bringing Rudiger to Hotspur Way has now escalated out of the club’s price range, even though the move would be on a free transfer.
As per Football Insider, the defender is holding out for a deal worth more than £300,000-per week after failing to agree new terms with Chelsea. This would shatter the north London club’s wage structure, as Conte’s highest-paid player Harry Kane is believed to be earning £200,000 per week.
Manchester United are now said to lead Tottenham in the race for the Germany defender, whilst PSG and Real Madrid also remain interested.
The Verdict: Out of budget
This news comes as a huge blow for Conte, who is a keen admirer of the centre-back from his days as Chelsea boss. Paratici remains committed in his pursuit, as he has been calling every day to try and secure an agreement.
However, with the defender soon approaching his 29th birthday, it seems unlikely that Spurs will sanction a move given his apparent salary demands, as a contract offer would be expected to span several years.
Therefore, it appears likely that Paratici will turn his attention to other targets as he sets to secure a new centre-back for the Spurs manager in a bid to bolster the club’s defensive options.
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