Roma defender Antonio Rudiger quiet on transfer rumours

Chelsea have some competition in their pursuit of Roma defender Antonio Rudiger in the shape of Premier League rivals Manchester City.

Fabrizio Romano of Sky Sports and GianlucaDiMarzio.com was the first to suggest the deal is nearing completion, saying a medical will be complete next week. However, a deal for Monaco midfielder Thomas Lemar, 21, is less likely.

The 35-year-old from Argentina will provide cover for Thibaut Courtois following Asmir Begovic’s move to Bournemouth. Rudiger’s Roma teammate Kostas Manolas was also a rumoured target but that seems to have come to nothing. Terry will sign a 12-month contract having rejected at least ten other offers from the likes of Galatasaray, Swansea and West Brom.

Chelsea will further strengthen their Premier League winning squad this week with two players who look primed to play in the Premier League.

The Brazilian is regarded as one of the best wide-men in world football and would set a new club record transfer fee should he sign for the Blues.

Rüdiger, who is primarily a central defender but can play at right-back, is expected to earn around €4m (£3.5m) a season.

It’s unclear at this stage as to where Rudiger will move, but the threat of Chelsea facing more transfer frustration will not be welcomed by fans.

Key to his unhappiness has been the decision to go for Everton striker Romelu Lukaku on the recommendation of technical director Michael Emenalo.

“Then all of a sudden you may see something you may not have seen because the players develop very quickly and I think Chelsea will do that”.