Chelsea
Mick Brown
Thu 15 May 2025 8:57, UK
Chelsea are unlikely to pursue a deal to bring Antonio Rudiger back to Stamford Bridge despite questions about his future at Real Madrid.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the 32-year-old does not fit the profile Enzo Maresca is looking for.
This comes despite “whispers” that he could be allowed to leave Los Blancos alongside a change in management, with Carlo Ancelotti set to walk away.
Brown told Football Insider in February that Chelsea want to sign a new centre-back as a priority as they have failed to replace Rudiger since his departure.
The Germany international left the Blues in 2022 when Madrid came calling, has since made 151 appearances for them and lifted the Champions League, La Liga and Club World Cup.
However, Madrid are now looking to strengthen at the back as Brown told Football Insider in February that Real Madrid want Arsenal star William Saliba.
Antonio Rudiger has been linked with a return to Chelsea. (Credit: Getty Images)
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Chelsea unlikely to sign Antonio Rudiger amid Madrid ‘whispers’
Brown told Football Insider in February that Maresca has to strengthen Chelsea’s defensive performances if he wants to avoid sack pressure.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, explained that a centre-back remains a key target but Ruidger’s return is unlikely.
“*Rudiger’s days at Chelsea are over,*” he told Football Insider.
“I’ve heard whispers he could leave Real Madrid when Ancelotti leaves.
“They’re in need of a bit of a rebuild there and the next manager will be the start of that.
“He was very good for Chelsea, a crucial part of that defensive unit under Thomas Tuchel, and they’ve certainly missed him since he went to Madrid.
“You don’t realise just how good they are until they’re gone.
“He’s always up for a fight, he could cause a row in a phone box, and Chelsea do need a bit of that.
“But he’s well into his 30s now, that’s not the type of player they’re looking at.
“They want to bring younger players in who can develop at the club, whether that’s the right thing to do or not because experience can be valuable.
“Rudiger has that experience, but he doesn’t fit the age or type of player Maresca wants in his side, so like I say, that one’s unlikely.”
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca
Enzo Maresca wants to strengthen his Chelsea squad. (Credit: Hasan Karim, Breaking Media)
Ezri Konsa on Stamford Bridge shortlist after Aston Villa latest
As plans to strengthen their defensive unit continue to be put in place under Maresca, they have turned their attentions towards Aston Villa star Ezri Konsa.
Brown told Football Insider on 13 May that Konsa is near the top of Chelsea’s list and he could kickstart a major defensive overhaul at Stamford Bridge.
Scouts have been keeping tabs on his performances at Villa Park, while his performances for England have also caught the eye.
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 5 May that Villa are prepared to sell key players this summer, with the likes of Ollie Watkins attracting interest.
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