Chelsea defender’s reason for wanting move revealed as Premier League club close in

Chelsea lost further ground in the Premier League title race on Thursday, as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Everton at Stamford Bridge. 

The Blues dominated throughout and hadten efforts on target, but were left frustrated after Jarrad Branthwaite cancelled out Mason Mount’s opener.

Tuchel’s side are now four points behind league leaders Manchester City ahead of a daunting festive schedule that culminates with the two sides meeting in the new year.

The new year also brings the January transfer window, which promises to be an important one for both sides.

City could be tempted to dip into the market for a striker having failed to replace Sergio Aguero over the summer, while Chelsea have been rumoured to be chasing a left-back, but may face more of a challenge in keeping hold of their own players.

Four senior defenders, Cesar Azpilicueta, Thiago Silva, Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger, are all set to be out of contract next summer, and are free to sign pre-contract agreements with overseas clubs from January 1.

Rudiger has been a standout performer for the Blues this season

Now, it has been revealed why Rudiger is pushing for a move away.

According to Football Insider, the German is ready to quit Stamford Bridge after being offered a less lucrative deal than that given to midfielder Mount.

The England international has been offered £140,000-per-week to pen a new long-term deal, and Rudiger’s offer is believed to be less than that figure, which has incensed the defender who is demanding a sum closer to £200,000.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have emerged as a surprise potential destination for the 28-year-old when he does leave West London.

As per German outlet BILD, United are hopeful that new boss Ralf Rangnick can be instrumental in persuading Rudiger to make the move to Manchester.

The former RB Leipzig boss has worked previously with the defender’s agent Sahr Senesie, and United are therefore hopeful that he will be able to land the player ahead of the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.