Chelsea target Josko Gvardiol has ‘no release clause’ in his contract despite recent reports stating otherwise, according to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg.

The Lowdown: Contrasting claims

The Premier League giants saw an offer for the centre-back rejected over the summer, though it’s recently been suggested that the Blues are confident of wrapping up a deal in January.

The RB Leipzig star signed a deal extension not so long ago which allegedly included a £43m release clause that could be activated next summer, but an update has now emerged contrary to those claims.

The Latest: Plettenberg’s update

Taking to Twitter, Plettenberg revealed that Chelsea do hold a strong interest in Gvardiol, but won’t be able to buy him out of his contract as initially hoped.

“News #Gvardiol: We’ve been told: NO release clause in his contract until 2027. But lots of top clubs informed about him for 2023. #CFC, #MUFC, Real and Barcelona highly involved. For Tuchel he was the main target. Boehly also focused on him. NO contact with Bayern.”

The Verdict: Blow for Potter

Should Chelsea miss out on landing Gvardiol, it would come as a huge blow to Graham Potter who will know exactly what he’s capable of offering in the capital.

The Croatian has been averaging 3.3 long balls and 1.5 clearances per Bundesliga game, highlighting his desire to contribute at both ends of the pitch (WhoScored).

Todd Boehly will be facing stiff competition for Gvardiol next year so it’s important that he puts the right money on the table if he wants any chance at fending off his rivals.