Graham Potter’s Chelsea are confident of beating Antonio Conte’s Tottenham Hotspur to the signing of RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol in 2023, according to 90min.
The report has claimed that Chelsea are optimistic of securing the services of Gvardiol and are willing to pay more than his release clause of £45 million, ‘allowing them to split the payment up over several years, rather than trigger the clause and be forced to pay the entire amount up front’.
According to 90min, ’Chelsea believe their willingness to exceed Gvardiol’s release clause, on top of their positive relationship with the Leipzig hierarchy, will ensure they win the race for the Croatia international’s signature’.
Chelsea’s confidence will come as a blow for London and Premier League rivals Tottenham, who are also keen on the 20-year-old Croatia international defender.
Earlier this week, TMW reported that Tottenham want to sign the 20-year-old defender in the summer of 2023.
The report in the Italian news outlet claimed that Spurs wing-back Ivan Perisic is trying to convince his Croatia international teammate to move to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium next summer.
Chelsea or Tottenham Hotspur for Josko Gvardiol?
In our view, Chelsea are more likely than Tottenham Hotspur to sign Josko Gvardiol, based on this report.
Chelsea are a richer club than Tottenham, and they do tend to spend more in transfer fees than Spurs.
Gvardiol is only 20 and has already spoken about a potential move to the Blues.
Described as “solid” and “different class” by former Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas on BBC Sport this week, the Croatia international, who is doing well at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, could find Chelsea more appealing due to their recent history of winning major trophies, including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
