Long-term Chelsea target snare takes big step with meeting scheduled for Blues transfer

Chelsea will reportedly meet with transfer target Josko Gvardiol after the World Cup, as the defender is in contact with his agent to “close” a deal.

Gvardiol was a target of Chelsea’s during the summer. Indeed, the Blues reportedly had a late bid rejected for the RB Leipzig defender.

He had played just one season for the Bundesliga side by that point. While he had performed well, both he and the club felt it was too soon for him to make a big move.

This season, Gvardiol is progressing well with both club and country. Indeed, he has missed just four games between the Bundesliga and Champions League for Leipzig.

Of the four Champions League games he played, Leipzig won them all. Furthermore, Gvardiol scored the opener in the 3-2 win against European giants Real Madrid.

He has played in both games of Croatia’s World Cup campaign, too.

The defence has been solid, as they have conceded just one goal in two games so far.

That he has been part of such a solid defence at the World Cup at just 20 years of age highlights his maturity.

Gvardiol ready for move

Links to Chelsea have remained this season. Indeed, that is no surprise given how effective Gvardiol has been in each side that he plays in.

A move to the Blues could now not be too far away. Journalist Alfredo Pedulla has revealed that a meeting will take place between the parties after the World Cup.

“After trying in every possible way last summer, [Chelsea] has scheduled a meeting predictably at the end of Qatar 2022,” he said on his website.

Gvardiol seems to be actively trying to work towards a move, too. While he was not ready for a transfer in the summer, after his good form this season, it seems he may be now.

“He is in close contact with his agent even these days, work in progress to close,” Pedulla added.

“Now he’s ready to go again, the same boy – who had considered his transfer in August premature – is ready for the big leap.”

Potter keen on Gvardiol

One big change from Chelsea’s interest in the summer is the manager. Indeed, Thomas Tuchel was at the helm then, while it is now Graham Potter.

However, Potter shares the views of his predecessor when it comes to Gvardiol.

“Potter has chosen, believes it the ideal shot, perfect for the three-man defence and has put it at the top of the shopping list for posting,” Pedulla said.

With that being said, it seems Chelsea are prepared to fight for the transfer. Reports of late have suggested Tottenham and Barcelona are both keen on a move for Gvardiol.

The Chelsea meeting could give them a boost towards the deal, though.

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