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RUD AWAKENING
Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger wanted on free transfer by Tottenham as defender stalls on new Stamford Bridge deal
CHELSEA star Antonio Rudiger is wanted by Tottenham on a free transfer, according to reports.
The German is stalling on a new deal at Stamford Bridge and the Blues' bitter London rivals Spurs are reportedly planning a swoop.
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But his signature won't come cheap. The German international is looking to pocket an eye-watering £400,000-a-week.
That's £50k more than top earner Romelu Lukaku receives at Stamford Bridge.
Thomas Tuchel is urging Chelsea to back down and give in to Rudiger's demands, according to the .
And their report states Tottenham are still keen on signing him having tried to land him last season.
The centre-back's current deal is set to expire at the end of this campaign.
Talks have been placed 'on hold' - with the Blues 'under pressure' to up their offer.
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Rudiger's time at Stamford Bridge appeared to be coming to an end 12 months ago, as he struggled under Frank Lampard.
But the 28-year-old has been a man rejuvenated under Tuchel, helping his team win the Champions League last season.
According to Sky Germany, Rudiger's Chelsea future is 'completely open'.
They claim that no decision will be made until January at the earliest, after the centre-back was left disappointed by the club's previous offer.
Bayern Munich and Juventus are also rumoured to be interested in signing Rudiger on a free.
And Rudiger admitted he is honoured by Bayern's interest.
He said: "Of course [Bayern's interest] honours me and proves that I've been doing things right.
"But I don't let myself be distracted. I have an obligation to my club to perform well. I have to prove myself every game and not let myself be distracted by rumours.
"I make my decisions for myself. They don't depend on anyone. I feel good where I am."
Speaking recently, Bayern boss Julian Nagelsmann said: "In principle I am no fan of talking about players who are under contract with other clubs while we are outside the transfer window.
"But I'm talking about Rudiger as a football fan. He has made fantastic progress.
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"Thomas Tuchel has handled him extremely well since taking charge. He was previously on the scrapheap at Chelsea.
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"But now he is one of the most important members of their defence. He has incredibly good fighting spirit, and is a very good defender.
"I always think it's great when a player lives up to his job description - and that is always the case with Toni."
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