Chelsea given green light to sign 20-year-old Bundesliga centre-back

To purchase Josko Gvardiol, Chelsea and RB Leipzig are in advanced negotiations. The 20-year-old center back is expected to finish the current season with the Bundesliga's top team before joining the Blues in a transfer that is expected to cost close to €90 million next summer. The two clubs are now engaged in intensive and advanced negotiations.

One of the most sought-after defenders in the world of football, Gvardiol has been the focus of transfer rumors all summer long after being linked with moves to Man City and Tottenham last month.

The Bundesliga's powerhouses, though, were unwilling to sell him this summer, underscoring his importance to the team. They also maintained their position by renewing his contract at the Red Bull Arena until 2026 earlier this summer to ward off suitors.

Given how late it is in the window, this update comes as a surprise, and it is reported that RB Leipzig are concerned over finding an apt replacement in such little time. As a result, Croatia international will be staying at Leipzig for the ongoing campaign on loan before moving to Chelsea in June 2023.

Thomas Tuchel has been a long-term admirer of the Croatian left-footed centre-back, who can play as a left-sided defender or left-back. The Chelsea manager was believed to be very keen on bringing him to the club earlier in the summer, with the Blues consistently linked with the Croatian.