Tottenham not alone in their pursuit of 32-year-old Real Madrid star as Italian giants circle

Tottenham Hotspur’s search for defensive reinforcements has taken concrete shape with the emergence of Real Madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger as a leading target, yet the north-London club face stiff competition from Juventus for the 32-year-old’s signature.

With Spurs conceding goals at an alarming rate this season, hierarchy at Hotspur Way have prioritised adding an experienced centre-back to steady a back line that has wobbled with alarming regularity. The potential departure of both Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero—each attracting admiring glances—has only intensified the need for a commanding presence in the heart of defence.

Rüdiger, whose contract at the Santiago Bernabéu expires in June, is available on a free transfer and fits the profile of a battle-tested leader who has already proved himself in the Premier League during his time at Chelsea. Sources indicate that Tottenham have already registered their interest, viewing the Germany international as the ideal candidate to marshal a reshuffled defensive unit.

But Spurs are unlikely to have a clear run at the player. Serie A heavyweights Juventus have placed Rüdiger on their shortlist as they look to overhaul an ageing rearguard, according to a report published by TuttoJuve. The Turin club are attracted by the defender’s Champions League pedigree and the cost-effective nature of a Bosman deal, factors that strengthen their hand as they seek an immediate upgrade.

For Tottenham, the challenge is twofold: convincing Rüdiger that the project in N17 offers a genuine pathway to silverware, and overcoming the lack of guaranteed European football next season. Juventus, by contrast, can dangle the carrot of continental competition—an influential bargaining chip when courting a player who has grown accustomed to performing on club football’s biggest stage.

Managing director of football Johan Lange and chief executive Vinai Venkatesham are expected to lead negotiations, tasked with selling a long-term vision that casts Rüdiger as both on-field general and dressing-room catalyst. Financially, Spurs believe they can outbid the Bianconeri on wages and are banking on the allure of the Premier League to tip the scales in their favour.

Whether that sales pitch proves persuasive remains to be seen. With Juventus now firmly in the race, Tottenham must move decisively or risk watching another defensive target slip through their grasp.