Josko Gvardiol has opened the door for a move to Chelsea, as the RB Leipzig defender remains linked with a big move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea sent shockwaves around the transfer market when they were willing to spend a vast sum on Josko Gvardiol at the end of the summer transfer window. The idea was to finalise a deal with Bundesliga giants RB Leipzig early to acquire the Croatian defender for next season.

Todd Boehly has adopted a similar strategy for another Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku, with a deal agreed upon and in the pipeline for the Frenchman to join in the summer. Chelsea have paid over and above the player’s value and could remain open to doing so again for Gvardiol.

Reports suggest the Blues are open to shelling €80 million for the 20-year-old Croatian international, who has proven his worth at the FIFA World Cup. Many other clubs are also watching his progress in Qatar, and a significant move away from the Bundesliga seems imminent.

He caught the eye during Croatia’s goalless draw against Belgium, posting some tremendous stats along the way. The draw ensured the Vatreni reached the knockout stage at the expense of the Red Devils. Clubs like Chelsea will have been pleased with his displays and could accelerate a move to get Gvardiol on board.

When asked about Chelsea’s interest after the game, Gvardiol seemingly left the door open for a future move. He also hinted at teaming up with international teammate and Blues midfielder Mateo Kovacic. In an interview with The Athletic, as relayed by 90min, as the Croatian defender opened up on his future.

Gvardiol said, “About Chelsea and me? I don’t know. You know what happened in the last few months. To be honest, I have no idea. My agent is taking care of this, and we will see. Right now, I’m happy in Leipzig. I don’t know, we will see – you never know. You know the stories and these things, but all I can say is that I’m happy in Leipzig, and right now, I’m going to stay there and perform for them.”

“It’s a big club, of course, and, who knows, maybe one day I will be there. It’s really nice to see things like this, especially because there is Kovacic, so you never know. I talk with him. Even to be here on this, the biggest event, it’s a big thing for me at 20 years old, so I’m happy. I have to think about it.”

Gvardiol signed a new long-term contract with Leipzig in September, which will last until 2027. Despite that, he is reportedly keen to join the Blues at some stage. Considering the maturity in his performances, the 20-year-old Croatian international will undoubtedly come with a hefty price tag, something Chelsea are willing to spend.

Besides Chelsea, there is also interest from Liverpool and Manchester City in Gvardiol. As the season progresses, more top sides could come into the frame, and the Leipzig defender could become the subject of a significant transfer battle next summer. So he seems set to leave the Bundesliga giants next year.

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