Real madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger Targeted by Saudi Pro League Clubs
Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger is a leading candidate for a transfer to the Saudi Pro League, according to reports, as the 32-year-old faces an uncertain future at the Santiago bernabéu. While currently sidelined with a hamstring injury expected to keep him out for at least three months, Rüdiger will be free to discuss a move when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The potential departure of Rüdiger coincides with a shifting defensive landscape at Real Madrid. With David Alaba anticipated to leave and the emergence of younger players like Dean Huijsen and Éder Militão, the club is prioritizing strengthening the center-back position in the upcoming summer transfer window. This situation, coupled with Rüdiger’s age and recent dip in consistent starting appearances, makes a move to the Saudi Pro League a plausible outcome.
Rüdiger, who will turn 33 in March, may be seeking one final lucrative contract. Whether he would consider a move to the Middle East remains to be seen, but Saudi clubs have demonstrated a willingness to offer substantial wages to established European players.
Real Madrid has identified Liverpool’s Ibrahimu Konaté as their top target to reinforce the defense, with Bayern Munich’s Dayot upamecano serving as an alternative. The club’s pursuit of these players,and possibly both,will be heavily influenced by Rüdiger’s ultimate decision regarding his future. Prior to his injury, Rüdiger was a regular starter under Xabi Alonso at the Club World Cup, but has sence seen his place in the starting eleven challenged.
