Rudiger’s advisor drops Man Utd transfer hint – but it’s not what it seems

Antonio Rudiger has been one of the best defenders in the world over the past few seasons, and the fact he is set to be a free agent in the summer has caught the attention of several clubs

Saif Rubie, who helped orchestrate Antonio Rudiger’s move from AS Roma to Chelsea, appeared to have dropped a clue about where the German defender could be playing his football next season with a cheeky instagram post.

Rubie has been a key intermediary for the former Stuttgart defender over his career and works for his agency – FSB. Rudiger is out of contract at the end of the season and is expected to leave Stamford Bridge.

The defender has been central in Chelsea’s successes since Thomas Tuchel took control of the club, with many Blues fans hoping the relationship between player and manager would be enough to see Rudiger extend his stay at the club. But that doesn’t appear to have been the case.

And Rubie hinted on Friday that the 28-year-old could be Manchester United bound. He posted an image on his Instagram of a framed photo of Sir Alex Ferguson with the caption: “Let’s see if I can help revive this sleeping giant #GloryGlory.”

The post understandably sent the Red Devils faithful into a frenzy given that reports have circulated that United and Rudiger’s representatives have spoken previously over a free transfer. However, it has since been revealed that the Rubie is not working on a deal for Rudiger, nor is he even at United at all.

Journalist Christian Falk has revealed that Rubie is not working as an agent for Rudiger and only Sahr Senesie, his actual agent, will be involved in helping Rudiger decide where his future lies. Though that isn’t to say that he couldn’t eventually be playing at Old Trafford on a weekly basis.

Manchester Evening News revealed that discussions have been had but the defender is reluctant to commit to United because they are not guaranteed Champions League football. United are currently sitting in sixth place in the Premier League and are three points behind fourth-placed Tottenham, though Antonio Conte’s side does have a game in hand.

Spurs are certainly favourites to secure that coveted final Champions League spot, though Arsenal are ready to pounce upon any slip up made by their North London rivals. Arsenal take on United this weekend in what is a crucial match for both sides, a win for United would revive their slim chances of top-level European football for next season, whereas a defeat would kill off any chance that Ralf Rangnick’s side had.

And Rudiger’s viewpoint could certainly be a cause for concern for newly appointed United manager Erik ten Hag, who has been tasked with guiding the Red Devils up the league table so that they can regain their status as title contenders and a European powerhouse. The 52-year-old is expected to be well-backed in the summer so that he can undertake a major reshuffle of the squad, with several players leaving when their contracts expire and others pushing for moves. It has been reported that the club are reportedly going to be in the market for a striker, winger, central midfielder and centre-back when the transfer window opens at the end of the season – though it would be no surprise for there to be other signings as well.