RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol is reportedly keen on joining Real Madrid when he leaves the Bundesliga club.
According to a report by Defensa Central, Josko Gvardiol has asked his agent to engineer a move to Real Madrid. The 20-year-old defender is even ready to earn less money at the Santiago Bernabeu than he would at another club.
Josko Gvardiol has become the toast of the transfer market after a whirlwind twelve months. The Croatian international, who joined RB Leipzig in July 2021, has been one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga. At the same time, he was excellent at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he was among the most elite performers.
The 20-year-old has turned out 65 times for Leipzig, chipping in with three goals and four assists. But the Bundesliga outfit might not retain Gvardiol’s services for much longer. That is because some of the most high-profile clubs, including Real Madrid, are interested in signing the player.
Real Madrid will likely look to invest in a centre-back in the summer transfer window. That is because David Alaba is on the wrong side of 30 and has sustained a few fitness issues lately. In addition, Nacho faces an uncertain future at the Santiago Bernabeu, with his contract expiring in the summer.
The veteran Spaniard is no closer to signing a new contract with Real Madrid and might leave as a free agent. At the same time, Jesus Vallejo’s time at the Bernabeu might end in the summer after barely featuring this season. So it behoves Real Madrid to delve into the market for a centre-back. And Gvardiol has emerged as a viable target for Los Blancos.
Recent reports have also suggested that the reigning La Liga champions are the front-runners to sign the 20-year-old. That latest update might bolster that thought process, with Gvardiol keen on joining Real Madrid. The Croat is also ready to take home lesser money than he would at any other club.
The latest claims are hardly surprising, considering he has revealed his desire to join Real Madrid. And it will be interesting to see if Los Blancos can agree to a deal with RB Leipzig. For now, Gvardiol is eager to move to the Bernabeu this year.
