Chelsea Transfer News: Antonio Rudiger Comments Amid Latest Blues Rumours

Germany international Antonio Rudiger has admitted he is attracted to the Premier League but has denied he agreed to join Chelsea from Roma before suffering injury in the summer.

The 23-year-old has refuted reports that said the centre-back was on his way to Stamford Bridge before suffering an ACL injury, keeping him out of UEFA Euro 2016.

According to Il Tempo (h/t Football Italia), Rudiger said he is happy to remain in the Italian capital but that it is his dream to play in England "one day":

"

It's not true that I was about to sign for Chelsea before I got injured.

My future is here. I am concentrated only on Roma, especially as I am coming off a serious injury and need to stay focused. I worked well during that period and feel at home here.

If Roma don't want to sell me, then I'll stay here. You never know in football and my dream is to play in England one day. Right now I am happy at Roma, as they signed me when I was injured and believed in me, so I have great respect for this club.

"

Paolo Bruno/Getty Images

Matt Law of the Telegraph recently reported the Giallorossi star was on Antonio Conte's shopping list as he searches for a long-term replacement for John Terry.

The Berlin-born player is a versatile talent and would allow Conte to play a number of defensive formations if he arrives in west London in the future.

Here is the player in action:

The German elaborated on his thoughts about the Premier League and his new life in Rome, per Il Tempo:

"

I really like the Premier League, as it is a very physical type of football and that suits my characteristics, but at the moment – honestly – I am concentrated on Roma and the derby.

I do feel much happier in Italy than in Germany. In my country there are so many rules, whereas in Italy people do more or less what they want.

At times it can be inconvenient, but all told I prefer the Italian mentality.

"

Rudiger was impressive last term, making 36 appearances in Serie A and the UEFA Champions League, according to WhoScored.com.

TF-Images/Getty Images

Chelsea were impressive as they defeated Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, but David Luiz needs a strong, athletic player next to him in defence.

Gary Cahill doesn't fit that ideal, but Rudiger would be the perfect choice to take Conte's defence to the next level.

The Blues are riding the crest of a wave at present, but a quality addition in January will boost the squad at the perfect moment.