How Chelsea could line up with Gvardiol

Cameron Smith

• 6 Dec 2022 10:39 GMT
• 3 min read

Josko Gvardiol continues to be heavily linked with a sensational transfer to Chelsea, and his performances at the 2022 Qatar World Cup have only enhanced his chances of securing a big-money move away from RB Leipzig.

The Croatian international has shone on the biggest international stage and has put himself in the shop window for clubs across Europe.

Gvardiol, 20, only joined Leipzig from Dinamo Zagreb in 2021, but was close to leaving the Bundesliga side this summer amid heavy interest from Chelsea. A move didn't materialise, with the Blues instead signing Kalidou Koulibaly, Wesley Fofana and Marc Cucurella, but they remain keen on landing him.

READ: The truth about Chelsea target Gvardiol's release clause

His World Cup displays have reignited links with a move to Stamford Bridge, with the West London club seemingly not satisfied with the defensive reinforcements they purchased in the summer transfer window.

With Thiago Silva in the final year of his contract, the Blues appear to believe that another central defensive signing is needed and have reportedly landed on Gvardiol. However, there is still a chance that the Brazilian veteran will renew his contract and play alongside the current RB Leipzig star.

READ: How Chelsea could line up with Christopher Nkunku

How Chelsea could line up with Gvardiol

With Graham Potter favouring world-record signing Kepa Arrizabalaga ahead of Edouard Mendy in between the sticks, it's likely that the Spaniard would retain his place as the club's number one shot-stopper if Gvardiol signs or not.

As Potter favours a back three system, in front of Kepa could be a trio of Wesley Fofana, Thiago Silva and Gvardiol, with Silva providing cover as the two either side of him are given license to leave the defensive line to be aggressors.

Reece James and Ben Chilwell are both injury prone but are the Blues' first-choice wing-backs when fit. Summer signing Marc Cucurella could come into the fold ahead of Chilwell if the Englishman continues to have injury woes.

A midfield three of Mateo Kovacic, Jorginho and Mason Mount may get the best out of all three players, while Raheem Sterling and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang bring a goal threat through the middle.