Chelsea have been told why they must complete a transfer for RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol. The 20-year-old has been crucial in helping Croatia reach the World Cup quarter-finals as they take on tournament favourites, Brazil.
Todd Boehly is keen to add further signings to Graham Potter's squad in the January transfer window with Gvardiol having been monitored by the club for some time, football.london understands. The Blues signed Kalidou Koulibaly and Wesley Fofana in the summer, along with Marc Cucurella, who is able to play at centre-back when needed.
Gvardiol is considered to be one of the top defensive talents in Europe and has continued to perform brilliantly for Croatia. The 20-year-old defender has hinted at a potential move to Spanish giants Real Madrid in the future as his stock continues to rise during the World Cup.
READ MORE: Chelsea have double Josko Gvardiol transfer advantage as £60m Todd Boehly World Cup test set
Micah Richards gave an assessment of the Croatian defender, highlighting his key strengths and potential weaknesses that could be improved under Potter at Stamford Bridge. Speaking ahead of Croatia's World Cup quarter-final clash against Brazil on the BBC, Richards highlighted Gvardiol's ability on the ball as a major asset, but warned he can improve when going into wide areas.
Richards said: "He had a few nervous moments and how he came away from them. You talk about breaking the lines, that’s exactly what he’s good at, all round his game, he’s so mature for such a young player.
"At times he gets exposed in them positions when he goes wide but he can deal with them one-on-one challenges."
Gvardiol is said to be valued at around £78million by Leipzig, a fee that would come close to a world record for a defender should Chelsea stump up the money to sign the 20-year-old. His potential and ability at such a young age would make him a brilliant addition to Potter's squad alongside the experience of Thiago Silva and Koulibaly, adding pace and energy to break forward into midfield on the ball.
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