RB Leipzig star is Chelsea’s ‘number one’ target, Fenerbache coach admits Tottenham Hotspur target will leave

Chelsea have made RB Leipzig star Josko Gvardiol their ‘number one’ target according to reports in Spain.

Blues stalwart Cesar Azpilicueta is said to be close to a move to Barcelona and Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo have suggested the Catalan giants submitted a formal offer earlier this week.

The same report states the offer was deemed insigificant but Barca believe Chelsea will allow their long-serving defender to leave for a relatively low fee during the summer transfer window.

Both the player and Barcelona are said to have ‘maximum optimism’ that a deal can be concluded in the coming days.

That report coincides with a separate line from another Spanish outlet as Sport confirm Croatian international Gvardiol is Thomas Tuchel’s preferred choice to replace for the former Marseille defender and state the Leipzig star could ‘soon sign for Chelsea’ to allow for Azpilicueta’s departure.

Gvardiol has also been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur in the recent past - but dismissed speculation surrounding his future towards the end of last season.

“I really enjoy every day with this great team, at this first-class club," the centre-back told German outlet Bild.

“I don't think about anything else. And if you ask me if I'll play here next year: Yes, of course.”

However, that could all bet set to change if Chelsea can secure a deal for the highly-rated defender.

‘A big blow’ - Fenerbache coach opens up on future of Spurs target

Turkish outlet Fanatik have reported Spurs, Everton and Serie A club Napoli are all monitoring Fenerbache centre-back Kim-Min Jae.

The South Korean international team-mate of Spurs star Son Heung-Min has been compared to Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk after putting in a string of impressive displays for the Turkish giants.

Fenerbache manager Jorge Jesus has suggested Kim will depart this summer as he opened up on his future in a recent interview.

He said: “His transfer was planned,” sighs the veteran tactician. “But it was a surprise for me. I heard (about Kim’s exit) two days ago.

“Unfortunately, our club can’t do anything about it. We can’t keep him. The club interested in him will pay the termination clause in the contract. It was a big blow to learn it.

“We have other players of excellent level. But Kim has important qualities.”