Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic may play a “significant” role in the Blues securing the signature of Josko Gvardiol, according to The Athletic‘s Simon Johnson.
The journalist claims Kovacic has a “close bond” with the defender and it could prove important in helping Graham Potter’s side win the battle for the Croatian international:
#CFC always intended to resume talks for Josko Gvardiol in January but they’re going to have to act quickly to secure his signature now. More here: https://t.co/MH5HxRtqnQ
— Simon Johnson (@SJohnsonSport) December 3, 2022
Gvardio’s club, RB Leipzig, turned down a €90m (£77.5m) offer from Chelsea last summer, with the centre-back subsequently opting to sign a contract extension instead.
However, there has been a lot of speculation over whether a release clause was included in the new deal. If there is one, it could prove crucial to the Blues’ chances of snapping up the 20-year-old.
If Todd Boehly can negotiate a deal similar to the one for Christopher Nkunku, where they pay above the buyout fee and agree to the move taking place at the end of the season, it could lead to Gvardiol making the switch to Stamford Bridge.