Croatian newspaper Sportske Novosti have raved about defender Josko Gvardiol after his sublime performance for Croatia against Belgium on Thursday evening – amid reports that Tottenham and Chelsea want to sign the Leipzig man.
Gvardiol, 20, has long been linked with a move to the Premier League. But he joined Leipzig in the summer of 2021 and has already played 65 times for the Bundesliga side. He is growing with every minute he plays on the big stage.
If fans were unconvinced that he is the finished article just yet, watch Thursday’s clash against Belgium. Gvardiol was everywhere, whether that be winning headers, making tackles and blocks, or driving with the ball out of defence.
His highlight of the game, without doubt, was nicking the ball off of Romelu Lukaku’s toe before the Belgian had a chance to tap the ball home. Jermaine Jenas said he was different class, and Sportske Novosti handed him an 8/10.
“Thoroughbred dominance and we can conclude without exaggeration, we have a ‘defensive Modrić’. The moment when he prevented Lukaku’s tap-in in the final moments will be a fragment for the almanacs of Croatia’s success.”
Sportske Novosti rave about Gvardiol amid Tottenham, Chelsea reports
What a performance. One of the best single performances in the World Cup so far. Gvardiol did pretty much, everything right. His last-ditch tackles and blocks were timed to perfection. It is crazy to think that is still only 20.
All of those, while wearing a mask to protect – having suffered a broken nose and eye injuries during a clash with teammate Willi Orban while playing for Leipzig. The Guardian report he has a release clause of just £44million.
According to TMW, Tottenham’s Ivan Perisic is trying to convince Gvardiol to join Spurs. Simon Phillips says he wants a move to Chelsea. But judging by Thursday’s display, Tottenham and Chelsea will not be the only clubs interested.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
