Transfer Talk: Spurs plot Premier League return for Rudiger

Tottenham are lining up an audacious attempt to bring Antonio Rudiger back to the Premier League. 

The 29-year-old defender only joined current club Real Madrid last summer, having left Chelsea on a free transfer following a trophy-laden spell at Stamford Bridge. 

Yet according to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Rudiger’s future at the Bernabeu is far from certain — and Spurs are monitoring the situation closely.

If Antonio Conte is to stay put in North London beyond this campaign, he has made it clear to club chiefs that improvements at centre-back are a necessity.

The Italian coach is a huge admirer of Rudiger and views the German international as a perfect fit for his preferred back-three system. 

Given the player is contracted to Los Blancos until 2026, a switch would require Spurs to stump up a sizeable fee but the report suggests it is not a forlorn hope.

Rudiger is supposedly concerned about Madrid’s intention to sign RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol, viewing the young Croatian as a threat to his starting berth. 

He has also found it tricky to produce his best form in the Spanish capital, particularly when operating in a back four under Carlo Ancelotti.

During his time at Chelsea, Rudiger made 203 Premier League appearances and played a starring role in their 2020-21 Champions League triumph.

In other news

Manchester City have renewed their interest in West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, according to 90min.

If Chelsea want to make Joao Felix’s loan switch from Atletico Madrid permanent, the Evening Standard suggest they will have to stump up £80million.

The Sun say Inter Miami are in pole position to sign Lionel Messi if the 35-year-old opts to leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer.