Man United told to hijack Tottenham and complete ‘brilliant’ Antonio Rudiger deal after twist – pundit
Noel Whelan has claimed a swoop for “brilliant” contract rebel Antonio Rudiger could bring much-needed “continuity and quality” to the Man United defence.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the Red Devils would need Champions League football in order to do a deal for the 29-year-old.
According to the Manchester Evening News (18 April), Man United have held “exploratory discussions” with Rudiger over making the move to Old Trafford when his Chelsea contract expires in June.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (18 April) that Tottenham are back in the race to sign the Germany superstar after a behind-the-scenes twist.
Man United sit sixth in the Premier League, three points adrift of fourth-placed Spurs – and having played a game more.
Whelan suggested Rudiger could strike up a formidable partnership with Raphael Varane if the Frenchman can find fitness next term.
“He’s a brilliant player, but it seems like Chelsea are resigned to losing him,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“His agent is obviously talking to a lot of different parties right now trying to get the player the best deal.
“Would he be an instant fix? No, because defending starts from the front.
“But hopefully Varane will have a better season next year – he’s barely played. They need continuity and more quality all over the pitch. He could give them that.
“He’s won the Champions League. Man United might not even be in the Champions League.
“Players like Rudiger will want to be in that competition. He could go to Real Madrid, Barcelona or Bayern and get it in a heartbeat.
“The key to Man United striking deals with these sorts of players is to finish fourth.”
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