In our view, Josko Gvardiol should join Newcastle United instead of Real Madrid, Chelsea or Tottenham after his incredible World Cup campaign draws to a close.
The speculation
Chelsea, who have been constantly linked with signing the wonderkid were recently speculated to be assured about beating Tottenham to his signature (via 90 Min).
And speaking of Spurs, Corriere dello Sport have mentioned that the club remain interested in one of the standout young centre-halves in Europe.
Furthermore, Antonio Conte’s side are expected to accelerate their intent to sign the youngster after the World Cup.
However, both Premier League giants have a mammoth competitor in Real Madrid to deal with for his signature, who are willing to pay upto £78 million to secure his services (via Alfredo Pedulla).
Why Newcastle is the next best step for Gvardiol
Recently, Alan Shearer told BBC Sport that Josko Gvardiol would “look good in a black and white shirt.”
And while some may consider his statement in jest, a strong argument can be made for why the Croatian international should join the Magpies.
Well, first of all, both Chelsea and Tottenham’s long-term projects can be questioned.
The West Londoners’ naïve transfer strategy in the summer after the arrival of Todd Boehly was proof that the club are miles off it in terms of knowing how to contest Manchester City right at the top.
While Antonio Conte remains a top coach, he has constantly flirted with a potential exit.
In addition, the North Londoners are notoriously stingy in the transfer window and this summer as well, their business has been a mixed bag to say the last.
The same cannot be said for Newcastle, who are one of the most savviest clubs in the transfer market now.
The arrivals of instant hits such as Bruno Guimares, Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier are signs that the club exactly know what they’re doing.
Aside from the big-money coup of Alexander Isak, the Magpies have remained measured in their approach to buying players.
On the pitch as well, Eddie Howe’s philosophy is one that suits his Newcastle side to a tee, as they currently occupy 3rd place in the Premier League table.
However, both Chelsea and Tottenham have often struggled to implement their styles this term, relying on individual brilliance to get them out of troubles several times.
As for Real Madrid, there is no denying that they remain a European power.
However, Los Blancos have elite centre-backs such as David Alaba, Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger already within their ranks.
At 20 years of age, Gvardiol has all the time in the world to join a traditional elite side like Los Merengues in a few seasons’ time.
And with things progressing in lovely fashion at Newcastle, they may dominate world football themselves one day. Food for thought
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