Bundesliga Star’s Italian Deal Could Fall Apart, Arsenal And Chelsea Still In The Race
Jan 8, 2017 at 12:48 AM
Ricardo Rodriguez has rejected offers from Arsenal and Chelsea and pondering over a Serie A move, that was the initial report but latest developments suggest it’s not over yet.
The Wolfsburg star is a wanted man this month, with strong interest from the Premier League duo.
Rodriguez is one of Europe’s top left-backs and is renowned for his pinpoint crosses, corners and free-kicks.
The 24-year-old has played a part in four league goals this season and his creativity would be welcomed in English football.
Chelsea are looking for fresh faces as Antonio Conte bids to win the title in his first season at Stamford Bridge, and Rodriguez has emerged as the perfect contender for Marcos Alonso in the left wing-back position.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are making plans ahead of Kieran Gibbs’ expected departure, while Nacho Monreal is one of the less-secure names in Arsene Wenger’s starting XI.
PSG have also expressed an interest in signing Rodriguez, but Italian newspaper Tuttosport via Goal claims the Switzerland international has no intention of moving to England or France.
Rodriguez has apparently snubbed approach from both Chelsea and Arsenal and has told his representatives to orchestrate a move to Inter Milan instead.
The super-rich Italians can easily meet the £19million release clause in his contract, and Rodriguez could soon find himself swinging balls into Mauro Icardi at the San Siro before January is out.
But according to British media reports, both Chelsea and Arsenal are still hoping to secure the deal with mega-money offers.
Rodriguez tends to adopt a relatively high starting position, charging upfield whenever possible to add to Wolfsburg’s attacking threat.
He’s blessed with a great left foot. In fact, Rodriguez is so technically accomplished that he has become a danger at set pieces. He’s capable of firing off shots from distance and is a reliable penalty taker.
He does possess defensive qualities, too. At almost 6′ tall, Rodriguez is built more like a burly centre-half than a winger. He combines skill with genuine power. Once he builds up a head of steam, he can be difficult to stop.