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Transfer Talk: Blues eye Gvardiol as Potter's first signing
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Cian Cheesbrough
LiveScore
Croatia international Josko Gvardiol remains on Chelsea's radar
Croatia international Josko Gvardiol remains on Chelsea's radar

Chelsea are eyeing RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol as Graham Potter's first signing as manager.

The 47-year-old was confirmed as Thomas Tuchel’s successor on Thursday and is expected to be backed heavily in the transfer market by Blues owner Todd Boehly.

Croatia international Gvardiol, 20, was on Chelsea’s radar in the summer but instead opted to sign a one-year contract extension to remain with Leipzig.

Still, interest from the West London club remains and transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has claimed Potter hopes to tempt the centre-back to reconsider in January.

The West Londoners signed Kalidou Koulibaly and Wesley Fofana to bolster their defence in the summer but Gvardiol’s natural ability to play on the left means he is still a target.

The Saxony outfit reportedly turned down a £77million bid during the last transfer window in a deal which would have seen him loaned back for the current campaign.

But American businessman Boehly has already shown his willingness to spend big and an even more lucrative deal could be on the table in January if Potter decides to pursue the move.

He made 29 Bundesliga appearances last term, impressing in a back three system similar to how Potter is expected to set up as Stamford Bridge.

With Thiago Silva turning 38 this month, the highly-rated youngster could prove a shrewd addition.

In other news

Loris Karius has reportedly agreed to join Newcastle
Loris Karius has reportedly agreed to join Newcastle

Newcastle have agreed to sign former Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius as their back-up stopper, according to Football Insider.

The Mirror have claimed the Magpies are set to rival Arsenal for Benfica left-back Alex Grimaldo, 26, who scored a stunner in the Champions League in midweek.

The same outlet says Colombian right-back and free agent Santiago Arias, 30, is ready to join Manchester United after leaving Atletico Madrid in the summer.

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ChelseaPremier LeagueRB LeipzigBundesliga
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