Liverpool completing a deal for RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol is ‘not hot at this stage’, according to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg.

The Lowdown: The story so far

Premier League clubs Chelsea and Manchester City, alongside the Reds, have all been credited with an interest in the 21-year-old, who is making a name for himself in the Bundesliga.

90min report that Jurgen Klopp has already sent scouts to watch the Croatian in action, so that he and the hierarchy are able to maintain regular updates on his transfer situation.

Marco Rose’s centre-back has publicly made it known that he supported the Merseysiders growing up and would love to one day complete a move to Anfield.

The Latest: Plettenberg’s update

Taking to Twitter, Plettenberg revealed that Liverpool aren’t currently in talks to sign Gvardiol. He wrote:

“News #Gvardiol: As reported yesterday #LFC is interested! He’s on the list. It would be a great fitting. But I’ve been told that it’s not hot at this stage. No negotiations. Leipzig wants to keep him 100%. Release clause in summer 2024 (!) is around €110m.”

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The Verdict: Splash the cash

Gvardiol’s release clause being £97m as of next year isn’t at all cheap for a centre-back, but Liverpool should splash the cash to secure his services whenever the opportunity presents itself.

The Zagreb native is currently averaging 2.5 tackles and 1.4 aerial wins per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga, via WhoScored, but can also be a threat in the final third.

The 6 foot 1 colossus has scored two goals in five Champions League appearances this season showing that he’s a danger at set pieces, much like Virgil Van Dijk.

Gvardiol will know what it takes to be successful having already won four trophies despite his young age, and he would only thrive further under the leadership of Klopp should he sign on the dotted line.