Earlier today, the UK Government decided to sanction Roman Abramovich, after Vladimir Putin ordered Russia to invade Ukraine.
The decision has caused major problems for Chelsea, with the Blues unable to sell tickets, players or even merchandise in the club shop, among other implications.
However, the news about Abramovich has provided a boost for Liverpool…
What’s the story?
Well, in addition to a ban on selling or buying players, Chelsea are also unable to extend anyone’s contract at the moment.
That includes Antonio Rudiger, who is set to become a free agent in June.
According to Eurosport, Liverpool are keeping tabs on the Germany international, and are monitoring his situation at Stamford Bridge.
The worst case scenario for Liverpool, in this respect, would’ve been to see Rudiger extend his contract with Chelsea.
However, that is now impossible, so Liverpool have a fantastic opportunity to sign one of the Premier League’s best defenders for free.
Liverpool don’t need Antonio Rudiger
In our view, Liverpool should leave Rudiger to someone else.
According to Goal, the 29-year-old is demanding £200,000-a-week, which would make him the second-highest earner at Anfield behind Virgil van Dijk (Spotrac).
Jürgen Klopp already has four excellent central defenders in Van Dijk, Joel Matip, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez, so there is no need to disrupt the wage structure to add a fifth.
If the Reds used a three-man centre-back system, then perhaps it would be worth exploring a move for Rudiger.
However, Klopp has never adopted that shape on a regular basis at Mainz, Borussia Dortmund or Liverpool.
Simply put, Liverpool should ignore a deal for Rudiger, as tempting as it may be.
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