“He would look good”- Alan Shearer urges Newcastle to sign 20-year-old Chelsea target

Shearer urges Newcastle United to sign Chelsea target Josko Gvardiol

Talking on BBC (h/t Express), Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has expressed his desire for the Magpies to join the race in signing Chelsea target and Croatia international Josko Gvardiol.

Gvardiol has been one of the standout defenders in the World Cup. His performance against Belgium was sensational in helping the team reach the knockout stages. Against Japan, the RB Leipzig man showed his class and maturity for such a young player.

Chelsea have linked with the 20-year-old since the summer transfer window. Telegraph reported that the Blues were close to sealing a £77.7m move for him at the time itself, but things did not materialise. He has been on the club’s radar since.

Here’s what Shearer commented on Gvardiol and Newcastle (h/t Express):

“He would look good in a black and white shirt wouldn’t he?”

The Dinamo Zagreb youth star’s numbers in the World Cup have been sensational. He has made 1.8 interceptions, 1.3 tackles, 6.3 clearances per game and won 67% of the total duels contested so far. The latter is a rate not many can reach irrespective of the position they are playing in (Sofascore).

As much as Newcastle or any other team could do with a world-class player like him in their squad, Chelsea would need to make sure Gvardiol is west London-bound in the coming transfer windows.

The Blues may find themselves in a situation where they will be needed to find a long-term replacement for Thiago Silva (38). The veteran’s contract at Stamford Bridge ends in the summer, and he is yet to decide whether he is going to stay beyond this season.

Gvardiol has all the qualities to be an excellent addition to the Chelsea squad. His versatility of being able to play both as a centre-back and a fullback could come in handy as well if required. We would love to see the Croatian wearing the Blue jersey soon.

More Chelsea News:

• Chelsea have opened talks to sign Mexican international Alexis Vega
• Former Chelsea defender urges the club to sign England midfield duo Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham
• N’Golo Kante included in 25-man Chelsea squad for mid-season training

The Magpies could be a real threat if they keep up their form this season and somehow manage a top-four finish. They have the financial backing of their Saudi Arabian owners. If they offer participation in UCL then they could be a team to watch out for in the market.