According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel’s “number one” defensive target at the moment is RB Leipzig center-back Josko Gvardiol.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Although there is obviously a need for fresh defenders after Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger left this summer, Kalidou Koulibaly is still Chelsea’s lone defensive acquisition to yet.
Remember that Tuchel said earlier this month that he requires at least one additional defender.
According to Sevilla sports director Monchi, the Blues were in the running to sign Jules Kounde, who finally signed with Barcelona after receiving “doubts” from the English club’s camp.
According to Romano, Chelsea is also interested in Leipzig’s Gvardiol and Leicester City’s Fofana, with the latter apparently being higher on the list.
The Italian transfer specialist claimed on his YouTube channel that “Gvardiol is one of the top names on [Chelsea’s] list – Thomas Tuchel is in love with this guy.”
“Let me just say that he’s option number one on the list, but as of right now, Leipzig’s position is unchanged; they have absolutely no plans to offload Gvardiol this summer.
“Therefore, it will be more than complicated.
“For Fofana, it’s challenging, but you can bargain. It’s not even the case for Gvardiol. Leipzig views him as untouchable, therefore it would take a miracle for Chelsea to sign Gvardiol.
Romano said that Chelsea had previously made an effort to suggest a prospective trade deal for Gvardiol, including the loan of Timo Werner as part of the transaction.
Leipzig is allegedly interested in Werner, but they are still hesitant to part ways with Gvardiol.
Romano said, “Right now, it’s more than tough since Leipzig doesn’t want to sell the player.
“But Chelsea tried, so let’s hope for the best.”
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Given that Gvardiol is arguably one of the greatest young center backs in Europe, it is understandable why Tuchel would be a fan of the player.
The 20-year-old is famous for his ball-playing capabilities in addition to his apparent defensive skills.
Romano noted that his Leipzig contract runs until 2026, thus Chelsea will have a difficult time persuading the Bundesliga club to release one of their important players.
