Speculation in the Italian media suggests Liverpool have identified Antonio Rudiger as a senior centre-back target for the summer. The reasoning cited is that Ibrahima Konate is out of contract at the end of the season and Virgil van Dijk is advancing in age. Sports Boom has also noted Liverpool’s interest in Rudiger, and the publication has claimed that the defender has decided to ignore the defending Premier League champions.

Reports from Italy claim that current Bernabeu boss Alvaro Arbeloa wants Germany defender Antonio Rudiger to stay. Graeme Bailey wrote in February that Rudiger is open to returning to the Premier League. Intermediaries have made contact with Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, West Ham United and Crystal Palace regarding a potential deal for Rudiger. According to TuttoSport, Liverpool and Manchester United have explored a potential deal for the 33-year-old in recent weeks. Rudiger also has significant interest from Juventus.

Antonio Rudiger is out of contract at Real Madrid at the end of the season, and no new deal is in place. According to TuttoSport, Liverpool have explored the possibility of signing Rudiger in recent weeks. Liverpool are also interested in the Germany international.

It is reported that Liverpool's interest in Antonio Rüdiger would arise if Real Madrid were to lose the defender on a free transfer and then attempt to sign Konaté. Juventus has also held an initial call with Rüdiger's agent but faces competition from clubs in Saudi Arabia and the Premier League. The defender joined Real Madrid in July 2022 and has a contract that runs until June 30, 2026.