Juventus Transfers: Antonio Rudiger’s demands may deter Bianconeri

Impending free agent and Juventus transfer target Antonio Rudiger is demanding top dollar for his services this summer and his requests may deter the Bianconeri from making a move.

Juve are keen to further bolster their defence this summer with the careers of both Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini both winding down. Frosinone defender Federico Gatti was signed in January before being loaned back to the Serie B outfit for the rest of the season, and the club are poised to sign another centre-back ahead of the 2022/23 season.

Chelsea’s Rudiger is the biggest name linked with a move to Turin. The German international looks poised to depart Stamford Bridge on a free transfer this summer as talks with the Blues over a new contract continue to stall.

Antonio Rudiger’s demands might deter Juventus from signing him this summer

Reports emerged last week of Rudiger agreeing to join Juventus on a four-year deal, but that was quickly rubbished by the reliable Romeo Agresti.

However, there’s no denying that the Bianconeri hold an interest in acquiring the 29-year-old, but the player’s supposed demands might be a sticking point in negotiations. According to calciomercato.com’s Daniele Longo, Rudiger wants a €10m salary and a hefty signing on fee.

That would make the German international the highest-paid player at Juventus.

While Rudiger has blossomed into one of Europe’s finest defenders over the past year, it’s hard to envisage the Bianconeri, who are keen on getting younger amid their rebuilding process, splashing out this sort of money to bring the Chelsea defender to Turin, as good as he is.

Rudiger’s excessive demands may convince Juventus to instead pursue a move for Torino’s Gleison Bremer. The Brazilian has performed at an extremely high level this season, establishing himself as one of Serie A’s best at his position, and Juve, along with Inter Milan, have understandably taken an interest.