Chelsea have been warned that they will 'kick themselves' if they do not win the race to sign RB Leipzig star Josko Gvardiol. The 20-year-old defender was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer but a move collapsed after he decided to pen a new five-year deal at the Red Bull Arena.
The Blues still hold an interest in Gvardiol but the German giants do not want to sell the defender, football.london understands. But, after playing a key role in Croatia reaching the semi-finals of the World Cup, retaining the centre-back's services could be a difficult task with a number of Premier League clubs plotting a move in January.
Gvardiol, who was reportedly eyed as a perfect replacement for Antonio Rudiger, started in each of his nation's fixtures in Qatar and only Lionel Messi was able to shake off the defender. Eager to wrap up a deal for the wonderkid before the winter window opens up, Manchester City are looking to 'short-circuit' fellow suitors, according to Foot Mercato.
