Chelsea looking to sign Croatian right-back Josip Juranovic
According to journalist Simon Phillips (h/t Football. London), Chelsea are interested in signing Croatian defender Josip Juranovic who plays his football for Scottish giants Celtic.
The World Cup is the best place for players to make the world sit up and take notice of what they are capable of and one player who has taken his chances with his impressive displays for the Croatian team is talented right-back Josip Juranovic.
Yes, Josko Gvardiol is the name on everyone’s lips at this World Cup when it comes to Croatia and the RB Leipzig defender has had an unbelievable tournament until now. However, one more player who has really impressed is Juranovic.
When you watch Juranovic play, the first thing you notice about him is his pace. The Croatian is very quick and also very adept on the ball. His linkup play with Modric on the right side of the attack has proven to be a very dangerous outlet for the semifinalists.
Juranovic also has a mean cross on him and at times, has even shown the quality to invert into a back three when required. Although not flashy and not standing out with one particular skill, the Celtic man seems to be a very all-rounded package.
The 27-year-old is predominantly a right-back but has also occasionally played as a right-sided midfielder or even as a left-back. He could be a very smart acquisition from the Blues if they indeed manage to snap him up.
We have seen enough and more times now to understand that Reece James is injury prone and as good as he is when fit, we do need another player who will be able to provide cover in that position when the Englishman is unavailable with an injury.
Cesar Azpilicueta has performed that role admirably in the past but the Spaniard’s preferred home is in the centre of defence and investing in a right-back makes sense for the Blues. Juranovic seems to fit the bill perfectly and could perform that role here.
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At 27, Juranovic will be a player entering the prime years of his career. If his displays at the World Cup are anything to go by, he has what it takes to play at a club of Chelsea’s stature and it could be a really good signing. Let’s see if Chelsea are able to pull it off.