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Manolas-Rudiger, if one goes will the other stay? Zenit and Chelsea keen on transfers

Manolas-Rudiger, if one goes will the other stay? Zenit and Chelsea keen on transfers

  • adapted and translated by David Baleno

As reported by CM.com’s Francesca Schito the connection between Manolas and Zenit is an neverending story. It all seemed like the deal was practically done, then a skipped medical that put everything in doubt, and once again a chance to reopen a deal that would bring Roma nearly 35 million EUR. Now that chance that actually seems to have really disappeared. The break between the Greek defender and Zenit seems unmistakable, and it is no coincidence that the Giallorossi club have suddenly opened another negotiating table with Chelsea, not for Manolas but for Antonio Rudiger, who has been admired by Antonio Conte for some time.

 

NO EXIT - In the last few hours, the hypothesis that the deal with the Blues could be a bait that would be useful to keep Manolas, has come to light. But a deal with Chelsea exists and is as lively as ever. Rudiger, who Monchi had reiterated in press conference, is only one step away from the London club. It will be a matter of time, but if the Manolas-Zenit talk was to be re-opened before a sale, then Rudiger's exit might no longer be necessary. But it is a very difficult scenario for the new management Roma and Eusebio Di Francesco, which could truly leave their defense completely dismantled, unlike their midfield scenario where they have already secured prized players Gonalons and Pellegrini.

 

DOUBLE GOODBYE? - If, as it seems, Rudiger's assignment was to close before Manolas's, Roma would be caught in the middle of a difficult situation. The Greek player’s contract is expiring in 2019, and he has already expressed his will to renew only for very a much higher salary, with a base of about 3.5 million EUR plus bonuses. Manolas has many enthusiastic followers among the big European clubs and a double goodbye is not to be discarded, because if he does not renew it would be the last "useful" summer for a high priced sale. Giallorossi fans hold their breath, the idea of losing two defenders does not sit well...