TRANSFERS

Antonio Rudiger to Barcelona now 'Unlikely'

David Ben 12:20 - 06 April 2022

Barcelona unlikely to pursue the signing of Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger

Acclaimed transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano believes Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger is ''unlikely'' to make a switch to the Camp Nou this summer

Italian transfer journaist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Barcelona will not go all out for Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger this summer.

The 29-year-old German has been linked with Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid earlier this year.

Antonio Rudiger was one of Chelsea's most consistent players last season, and instantly improves Real Madrid

Antonio Rudiger joined Chelsea from Roma in July 2017

However, Fabrizio Romano's claim comes after he confirmed that the Blaugrana are close to extending the contract of young defender Ronald Araujo via his official Twitter page.

Barcelona have not made an official bid for Toni Rudiger, just direct contacts with his agents - it's now considered unlikely as Christensen will sign for Barça and Araújo will extend his contract, 100%. 🔴 #FCB

Ronald Araújo new deal is already sealed, release clause included. pic.twitter.com/erGdwfNCcu
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 6, 2022

Rudiger is out of contract with the Blues by the end of this summer and his future at the Bridge remains very much in doubt.

He's also been consistent for The Blues since Thomas Tuchel took charge in 2021, becoming one of the best center-backs in the Premier League.

Antonio Rudiger

The 29-year-old has played 192 matches across all competitions for Chelsea since joining the club in 2017. In that time, Rudiger has won the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

Barcelona also have an agrement in place for Chelsea center-back Andreas Christensen who looks set for a switch to the Camp Nou next season