Tottenham Eye Antonio Rüdiger Move From Real Madrid Amid Defensive Woes

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly weighing up a move for Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger, according to Football Insider.

Why Spurs Want Defensive Experience

Spurs invested heavily at the back last summer. Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi arrived on free transfers, Jan Paul van Hecke joined for a significant fee, and Micky van de Ven signed a new contract.

Even so, Roberto De Zerbi’s side sit 19th after six games, and a seasoned leader could help steady the ship.

Rüdiger Transfer: Contract and Saudi Competition

The report claims Tottenham have kept tabs on the 33-year-old since last summer and could pounce when his Real Madrid deal expires. His age remains a concern, but the club are apparently open to experienced signings, as the Robertson and Senesi deals showed.

However, time may be against them. Football Insider suggests the 6ft 3in German is most likely to head to the Saudi Pro League, so Spurs would need to move quickly.

A Proven Winner

Rüdiger earned a reputation at Chelsea for aggressive tackling and strong one-on-one defending, winning the FA Cup, Europa League, Champions League and Club World Cup there. Rio Ferdinand once described him as “phenomenal”.

Our Opinion

Rüdiger turns 34 in March, so he would be a short-term fix rather than a long-term solution. Still, his vocal leadership could be exactly what a struggling dressing room needs, even if he is not an automatic starter. Spurs fans might also feel that a younger long-term investment deserves equal attention.