Paul Merson has compared Tottenham and Liverpool target, Antonio Rudiger, to David Luiz and stated the Chelsea defender has ‘pulled the wool over the fans’ eyes’, as he told Sky Sports News (09/04/22 at 2:30 pm).
The Sky pundit added by saying that if Rudiger leaves Chelsea in the summer, then he doesn’t think it would be a good buy if you don’t play a back three.
Tottenham are a club expressing interest in wanting to sign the Champions League winner, which would cause quite the stir if it were to happen.
Liverpool, who could possibly lose Joe Gomez in the summer, are another team looking at possibly signing the out-of-contract star, as reported by Eurosport.
When it comes to playing in a back three, Merson has no issues with Rudiger, but when he plays in a flat back four, he starts to question what he can bring to the table.
“He struggles in a four,” said Merson. “I watched him when Tottenham come to Stamford Bridge.
“He did what Newcastle didn’t do the week before, when Kane went into deep, he just went in with him and followed him everywhere.
“He can do that because they are playing three at the back. You go with two at the back, then you are in trouble. This is a problem. You play to your strengths. He’s had a good season.
“He has been fortunate. He has pulled the wool over the fans’ eyes in a way. He’s not signing for Chelsea and the fans love him. It’s only because he’s playing well.
“I think if you don’t play a three, then I don’t think it’s a good buy, in my opinion. Playing in a three he’s the best about. He’s like David Luiz. Exactly the same type of player.”

Even though Spurs have Antonio Conte on their touchline, it would be quite the shock if Rudiger swapped Chelsea colours only to don Tottenham’s.
It’s understandable why he would say yes to a team like Liverpool because they are one of the best around.
But, those at Stamford Bridge will be hoping to get new owners in as soon as possible because, as things stand, players like Rudiger are heading for the exit door.
At the age of 29, Rudiger is at the peak of his powers, with a Champions League winners medal around his neck and worthy of playing for many top teams across Europe.
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