Manchester United’s hopes of signing Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger have been boosted by the news that Bayern Munich have decided not to pursue the centre back.
Rudiger is expected to become a free agent on June 30th after deciding not to continue his career at Stamford Bridge.
The form of United skipper Harry Maguire has been a cause for concern at Old Trafford this season, prompting speculation that the club is in the market for a world class centre back this summer.
Rudiger certainly fits the bill in that regard but reports had suggested he might favour a move back to his home country with Bayern mooted to be keen.
However, according to German transfer guru Christian Falk, the Bavarians have decided against pursuing the 29-year-old.
‘NOT TRUE is That @FCBayern is still interested in @ToniRuediger,’ he tweeted.
‘The Bosses think he is too old for such an investment. For a Transfer he would have to lower his wage demands.’
NOT TRUE ❌ is That @FCBayern is still interested in @ToniRuediger. The Bosses think he is too old for such an investment. For a Transfer he would have to lower his wage demands pic.twitter.com/KgdYkPiM54
— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) March 24, 2022
Falk also offered encouragement for United fans, claiming that the Chelsea man would explore the idea of an Old Trafford move when a new manager arrives.
‘A decision about a future of @ToniRuediger at @ManUtd is difficult. Rüdiger would like to Talk with the new Coach before,’ Falk said.
TRUE✅ a decision about a future of @ToniRuediger at @ManUtd is difficult. Rüdiger would like to Talk with the new Coach before… pic.twitter.com/PuGQQKx2J1
— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) March 24, 2022
The fact that Bayern look to be out of the race does not leave United with a clear run at the player, with the likes of Real Madrid, Juventus and PSG still linked with an interest.