Report: Chelsea now ‘seriously’ want one of the best youngsters in world football, he could join with Kounde

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It has been reported Chelsea are showing ‘serious’ interest in RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol.

According to the Athletic, the 20-year-old is being considered to fill the void left by the departure of Antonio Rudiger.

The Croatian enjoyed a stellar season in Germany, seeing him become a regular for the national team.

His performances also earned himself a place on the golden boy shortlist for 2022, while also being placed fourth on a list put together by CIES Football of the top youngsters in the world.

It is claimed the Blues are considering Gvardiol as a replacement on the left-hand-side of defence, after Rudiger’s decision not to sign a new contract at the club.

The German was imperious in the role last season, meaning the Blues may have to look big if they’re to replace his impact.

While the Croatia international may be seen as a player for the future, his performances in the Bundesliga and in Europe have shown he could slip straight into a top side.

The Athletic state Gvardiol is “among several names drawing serious interest from Stamford Bridge”, with players such as Matthijs de Ligt and Milan Skriniar being reported as potential targets.

The same report also claims that Jules Kounde is expected to sign for Chelsea, but he could be one of two central defenders who make the move to Stamford Bridge this summer.

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Gvardiol looks like he could be a sensational signing for the Blues, and with him being just 20-years-old he has the potential to be a stalwart in a back line for over a decade.

While it is believed the deal for Kounde will eventually be completed, the departure of Andreas Christensen as well as rumoured exit for Cesar Azpilicueta means the club may be forced to go into the market for more than one big-name signing.

If they were to bring in Gvardiol and Kounde it would look like brilliant business on paper, though, and although the defence will need restructuring, the double deal could hand Tuchel all the tools required to ensure that Chelsea’s back-line remains very strong.