Revealed: Chelsea’s January plans for Joško Gvardiol & Rafael Leão

Chelsea are attempting to make two new signings today.

The Blues look set to sign Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and are also trying for Edson Álvarez.

The west London club had also been looking to make an audacious move for both Joško Gvardiol and Rafael Leão but these deals are now unlikely.

However, Chelsea are expected to revisit moves for the duo in January.

Joško Gvardiol signs new deal but Chelsea ready to return

Bergamo, Italy. 14 April 2022. Josko Gvardiol of RB Leipzig controls the ball during the UEFA Europa League quarter final second leg football match between Atalanta BC and RB Leipzig. Credit: Nicolo Campo/Alamy Live News 2J4E8MD Bergamo, Italy. 14 April 2022. Josko Gvardiol of RB Leipzig controls the ball during the UEFA Europa League quarter final second leg football match between Atalanta BC and RB Leipzig. Credit: Nicolo Campo/Alamy Live News (Alamy Stock Photo)

RB Leipzig have this morning announced that Joško Gvardiol has signed a new contract with the club until 2027.

But, as per Sky Germany, this new deal does not contain a release clause, like his previous one, which could make him more attainable.

Even before this morning’s news broke, Thomas Tuchel’s side had been plotting another attempt for him in the winter.

Chelsea ready for January return for Rafael Leão

Rafael Leao (Milan) celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Italian “Serie A” match between Milan 2-0 Genoa at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 15, 2022 in Milan, Italy. Credit: Maurizio Borsari/AFLO/Alamy Live News 2J4J59G Rafael Leao (Milan) celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Italian “Serie A” match between Milan 2-0 Genoa at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 15, 2022 in Milan, Italy. Credit: Maurizio Borsari/AFLO/Alamy Live News (Alamy Stock Photo)

Chelsea also plan to return in January for Rafael Leão, according to the Times.

This summer, a deal for the Portuguese forward would have cost them £130 million.

The Blues had been in talks with AC Milan and Diario AS even claim that they had a €100 million bid rejected.

Milan referred them to his €150 million release clause.