Chelsea and RB Leipzig are in negotiations for a dual transaction involving Christopher Nkunku and Josko Gvardiol.
Near the close of the summer transfer window, the Blues had a bid for center-back Gvardiol rejected, and Nkunku had a physical under Chelsea’s watchful eye in preparation for a potential transfer in 2023.
Chelsea and Leipzig have maintained open lines of communication since the summer, and co-owner Todd Boehly is eager to complete the simultaneous signing of both players as soon as possible.
Chelsea hopes to complete the signing of both players before the World Cup, though Leipzig might be hesitant to approve the exits of two highly sought-after players prior to the winter extravaganza, which is essentially the greatest shop window in the world.
The fact that the Blues are trying to reach agreements with Leipzig over both signings rather than triggering either player’s release clause, which must be fully paid, complicates negotiations even more.
Chelsea hopes to complete these additions before the end of the month, as well as appointing a new sporting director.
One of the potential candidates to bolster Chelsea’s hiring team is technical director Christopher Vivell, a different Leipzig employee who is currently the subject of discussions.