Tottenham, which dismissed manager Thomas Frank (53), is already signaling a major defensive overhaul.
Football Espana of the U.K. reported on the 12th (Korean time) that Tottenham has taken the bold step of pursuing German national team defender Antonio Rüdiger (33, Real Madrid) to fill the potential gap left by Cristian Romero (28), who is likely to leave at the end of this season.
Tottenham is preparing for Romero's possible transfer amid reports of conflict with the club's leadership. Romero recently hinted at a transfer by leaving explosive comments calling the club's passive signings and lack of available personnel "shameful."
In response, Tottenham has its eye on Rüdiger. Rüdiger left Chelsea in 2022 and settled in at Real Madrid, where he has played as a key defender. However, his contract expires at the end of this season, making it likely he will be released as a free agent.
Real's hesitation to re-sign Rüdiger is due to his struggles with injuries over the past 12 months. Rüdiger has appeared in only nine matches across all competitions this season.
Real's leadership wants Rüdiger to fully prove his fitness during the remainder of the season. If he does not, Real is reportedly unlikely to offer him a new contract.
But according to the U.K.'s TeamTalk and Spain's Estadio Deportivo, Tottenham believes the experienced veteran Rüdiger could fill the leadership void and defensive uncertainty that would arise if captain Romero, who is under contract until 2029, were to leave.
However, competition would be inevitable if Rüdiger enters the market. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and his former club Chelsea are already closely monitoring his situation. Rüdiger himself considers staying at Real Madrid his top priority, but regaining the club's trust is urgent.
Rüdiger recently shook off injury and returned, preparing to play under manager Alvaro Arbeloa. He must prove his worth immediately in the home match against Real Sociedad on the 15th.
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