Report: Chelsea think they are close to signing ‘phenomenal’ £45m player, Boehly wanted him in the summer

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Chelsea reportedly believe they are close to signing RB Leipzig centre-back Josko Gvardiol.

According to 90min, the Blues are “optimistic” they can strike a deal for the young defender.

It is understood that Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly targeted the 20-year-old talent in the summer, but the London club are now back chasing his signature.

The report says Graham Potter’s side have been in contact with German club Leipzig about Gvardiol, who’s got a release clause of £45million that will come into play at the end of the season.

90min adds Chelsea think they are “close” to agreeing this signing.

Chelsea believe they are close to signing Gvardiol

Blues fans should be very excited to hear the speculation that this transfer may be wrapped up soon enough.

Gvardiol is an all-action defender that looks destined for the very top.

The Croatia international is an extremely composed centre-half that’s calm on the ball and he’s very confident dribbling out from defence. He can turn into a no-nonsense defender when he needs to as well with a great aerial presence in his own box.

Described as “phenomenal” by Mateo Kovacic, Gvardiol is the type of addition that could really help improve the backline.

Potter is still trying to work out his best Chelsea defence, which definitely still includes 38-year-old Thiago Silva at this moment in time. However, how much longer can the Brazilian veteran go on at this level for?

The Blues already have brilliant young centre-halves in the squad with the likes of Trevoh Chalobah and Wesley Fofana. Gvardiol is another that looks like he’s got an incredibly high ceiling in terms of potential.

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