A new manager will be in charge at Crystal Palace next season, and it’s vital he’s backed in this summer’s transfer window. Marc Guehi’s departure will need to be addressed following his £20m move to Manchester City in January.
According to CaughtOffside, Palace have held talks with former Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger. The German’s contract with Real Madrid expires this summer and the La Liga giants are expected to undergo a rebuild.
Rudiger has much-needed experience, having spent years playing in the Champions League. He continues to roll back the years at the Santiago Bernabeu, although he has enduring recurring injury issues.
Reel in Rudiger
Palace would be pulling off one of their biggest signings in history if they were to sign Rudiger. He is an 81-cap Germany international and still regarded as one of Europe’s top centre-backs.
The 32-year-old has made 11 appearances across competitions this season due to injury setbacks. That will be a concern for the Eagles, who need a mainstay in their defence to deal with Guehi’s departure.
That said, the opportunity to sign a player of Rudiger’s ilk on a free is a fantastic market opportunity. Not only does he provide defensive stability, but he also has leadership qualities.
Parish’s recruitment staff won’t have a free run at the German, though. Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United are also keen on the Madrid man, who has been with Los Blancos since the summer of 2022.
Rudiger wants Premier League return
If Rudiger, described by TNT Sports as ‘elite’ is forced to leave Madrid when his contract expires, he is reportedly prioritising a return to the Premier League. That won’t be at Chelsea, who are said to have ruled themselves out of the race for their former defender.
Paris Saint-Germain are thought to be monitoring the situation, although the European champions can be expected to prefer a younger defensive reinforcement. If it is a three-horse race for Palace with Spurs and the Hammers, they could be in a strong position to bring him back to England.
Glasner won’t be in charge at Selhurst Park as the Austrian is leaving when his deal runs out at the end of the season. Whoever replaces the FA Cup-winning coach will want experienced heads in his squad and Rudiger fits the bill.
Rudiger ideal stop-gap Guehi replacement
Guehi was a leader during his time at Selhurst Park, and Steve Parish’s transfer chiefs must find the right replacement. The Eagles could swoop for a young prospect who has shown potential or prioritise experience.
Crystal Palace’s recent transfer activity has come under scrutiny, putting pressure on them ahead of an important summer. Potentially signing Rudiger could prove to be an astute piece of business.
The German is still performing well at Madrid and is the perfect solution for Palace. He could even arrive alongside a younger defender to give the next permanent manager more options.
