How Abramovich sale affects Rudiger, Christensten and Azpilicueta futures

James Shearman

• Updated: 2 Mar 2022 19:44 GMT
• 3 min read

Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen and Cesar Azpilicueta's Chelsea contracts are all up at the end of the 2021/22 campaign.

The trio played significant roles in the Blues' Champions League success last season, and would represent huge losses to the club should they leave.

Yet, with Roman Abramovich confirming that he is selling the club, their departures look all the more likely.

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Even though the Russian is set to sell, the process could take weeks to complete.

And, there is unlikely to be any movement in terms of transfers or contracts while the new takeover is in the works.

So, in the meantime, the three senior players will be negotiating with other clubs, with Chelsea's chances of keeping hold of them decreasing as each day passes.

Abramovich sale affects Rudiger, Christensten and Azpilicueta

Antonio Rudiger seemed the most likely of the three defenders to sign a new deal at Stamford Bridge.

The German is in the form of his life, under manager Thomas Tuchel, and seems as though he is happy in west London.

The reason he hasn't already signed is that he is asking to be made one of the highest-paid players at the club.

Chelsea may have eventually caved in to this request, but may not now get the chance.

Andreas Christensen looks set to sign a long-term contract with Barcelona.

After much back-and-forth between his representatives and the Blues hierarchy, it appears he has decided to leave the club.

Again, Chelsea could have made a last-gasp attempt to keep the Dane, but while the takeover is being sorted, he will likely finalise a deal with La Blaugrana.

Club captain Cesar Azpilicueta is also expected to sign for Barcelona upon the expiry of his contract.

The 32-year-old has already earned legendary status, unlike Rudiger and Christensen, so Blues fans will wish the Spaniard well in his departure.