In a recent tweet, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano stated that Liverpool are among the clubs hoping to sign Red Bull Leipzig star Josko Gvardiol. It has been claimed that the Reds will have to rival Manchester City and Chelsea in the race to land the Croatia international this summer.
Josko Gvardiol remains among Man City top targets for the summer window — he’s really appreciated by Pep Guardiola and by the board too 🔵🇭🇷 #MCFC
Chelsea and Liverpool are also in the race, nothing is decided and there’s no release clause for this summer. pic.twitter.com/MDRb4LS2N5
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 14, 2023
Gvardiol’s Decent Run Of Form In German Football This Season
Gvardiol is experiencing a solid campaign in German football as he has managed to produce a series of impressive displays at the heart of Leipzig’s backline. The Croat defensive ace has made 31 appearances for the German club this season, scoring three goals across all competitions.
The 21-year-old has been a reliable performer on the defensive end of the pitch based on his average of 0.7 tackles, 1.0 interceptions and 2.4 clearances per 90 minutes in Bundesliga. He has even been tidy when distributing the ball from the back after making 89.3% of his attempted passes in the top tier of German football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Red Bull Arena is set to run out in the summer of 2027. Hence, it won’t be easy for the Reds to win the race to secure his services later this year.
What Will Gvardiol Add To Liverpool Boss Jurgen Klopp’s Team?
Gvardiol is a good tackler of the ball and can sense the danger quickly to earn the ball back for his team on the defensive third of the pitch. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball to clear his lines when the opposition are on the front foot.
The Croatia sensation excels at playing his way out from the back. He has mainly functioned as a central defender for Leipzig but can also fill in as a left-back if told to do so.
Gvardiol has what it takes to add more bite and steel to Jurgen Klopp‘s defence. He will also offer some healthy competition for Ibrahima Konate, Joel Matip and Virgil Van Dijk at Anfield over the next few years.
At 21, Gvardiol has got a bright future ahead of him and Klopp could be the ideal man to unlock the best out of the player at the Merseyside club in the future. With all things considered, Liverpool would be wise to try everything they can to lure the Leipzig talent to the northwest of England during this summer transfer period as he could help them challenge for the Premier League title once again next season.
