Tottenham eye Bosman swoop for former Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger

Tottenham Hotspur are exploring a shock Bosman move for ex-Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger, who is set to become a free agent when his Real Madrid contract expires this summer, according to TeamTalk.

Intermediaries have already sounded out Premier League suitors, with Spurs joined by London rivals Crystal Palace and West Ham in monitoring the 31-year-old German international’s situation. Sources indicate Rudiger is open to a significant wage reduction to facilitate a return to the capital, removing the burden of a transfer fee at a time when elite centre-backs command premium prices.

The development comes as uncertainty grows over Cristian Romero’s long-term future in N17. The Argentine World Cup winner has publicly voiced frustrations over recruitment strategy, collected a costly red card in a pivotal clash with Manchester United and produced a string of uneven displays, intensifying debate about his suitability to lead the back line and wear the captain’s armband.

Rudiger, by contrast, offers pedigree and proven resilience. Since overcoming a thigh injury in November he has re-established himself as a regular for the La Liga giants, remaining aggressive in duels, dominant in the air and comfortable defending a high line. Those traits address two chronic weaknesses for Tottenham: chaotic transition moments and set-piece vulnerability.

Beyond the technical fit, the former Roma defender would inject a commanding personality into a dressing room that has appeared rattled during high-pressure stretches of the campaign. With no fee attached and wages negotiable, Spurs hierarchy view the potential deal as a low-risk, high-upside opportunity to stabilise the spine of the squad.

Competition and caveats remain. Saudi Pro League clubs retain the financial muscle to blow Premier League offers out of the water, and Tottenham’s current standing outside the Champions League places could complicate negotiations. Yet if Romero agitates for an exit, Rudiger’s experience, winning mentality and immediate availability on a free transfer could prove too tempting for the club to ignore.