- 14 hours ago
How much will Josko Gvardiol cost Chelsea and Real Madrid?
Carlo Garganese
- Updated: 23 May 2023 09:00 CDT
- 3 min read
Croatia defensive sensation Josko Gvardiol will cost an astronomical €70-80 million to sign, according to the Corriere dello Sport.
Gvardiol has emerged as arguably the most exciting young central defender in Europe this year.
The Leipzig defender has been one of the best defenders at the World Cup for Croatia, who booked their place in the last-16 by eliminating Belgium this week.
World Cup 2022: Teams, fixtures, results, favourites
World Cup all-time top scorers
Ronaldo vs Messi at the World Cup: How their stats, goals, assists and performances compare
Gvardiol was particularly impressive in the 0-0 draw with Belgium, making a goal-saving block late in the game which kept Croatia in the tournament.
His performances have only further strengthened the interest from Europe’s biggest clubs.
Chelsea and Real Madrid are considered the two favourites for his signature, but the Corriere dello Sport claim that he will not be cheap.
Leipzig have slapped an asking price of €70-80m on the 20-year-old.
Gvardiol has spoken recently about the prospect of joining both Real Madrid and Chelsea.
He said earlier this week that Madrid were the biggest team in the world and could see himself playing there.
What has Gvardiol said about Real Madrid and Chelsea?
"Real Madrid is the biggest club in the world, so who knows," Gvardiol told reporters.
"Maybe one day I can play there. I'd like to, yes.
"[Luka] Modric doesn't have to tell me anything about Real Madrid, there's no need. I already know everything. I know it's the biggest club in the world and how important it is to be linked to a team like that."
Gvardiol also is warm to the idea of joining Chelsea.
"It's a big club of course and, who knows, maybe one day I will be there," he told The Athletic.
"It's really nice to see things like this, especially because there is Kovacic, so you never know. I talk with him."
Gvardiol is next in action at the World Cup on Monday when Croatia play Japan in the last 16.
