Manchester City are well ahead of the competition in the race for top defensive target Josko Gvardiol, with RB Leipzig demanding a record fee.
Sky Sports Germany says Manchester City are leading the chase for Josko Gvardiol. Pep Guardiola considers the €110 million Bundesliga star his primary defensive target, as RB Leipzig will demand a record fee for the 21-year-old Croatian.
Manchester City are coming at the back of an incredible season, winning the treble. Their win over Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League Final in Istanbul landed their maiden European crown, with Pep Guardiola now eager to strengthen his squad.
While they might not do quantity business, Guardiola wants to add quality players to improve this super team. One of the areas for concern for the Catalan boss will be the centre-back position, particularly the left-sided one.
Aymeric Laporte could depart amid growing interest in the Spanish defender. Guardiola had barely used him this season, as he was only selected when injuries troubled the team, namely to Nathan Ake. Yet, Guardiola would want a solid replacement in place if he leaves.
They are already stepping up their efforts to sign Josko Gvardiol. The RB Leipzig star has plenty of suitors ahead of the window, and the Bundesliga club could open the doors over a sale. Chelsea were the club long linked with the Croat, but their conditions have not changed.
Guardiola has been sensational for his age and is a leader for both RB Leipzig and the Croatian national side. He has a big future ahead, and his club recognise that. The €110 million release clause protects them, although that only becomes active in 2024.
The report suggests Leipzig could demand a record fee for the 21-year-old defender. Considering the player’s need to play in the Champions League, Manchester City seems like the only club financially capable of brokering such a deal.
Leipzig could accept his release clause a year in advance or negotiate with suitors to set a price. One way or another, Guardiola could become the costliest defender in the world if things transpire how the Bundesliga side wants them to.
The report also insists on Bayern Munich’s interest but dismisses the suggestion for financial reasons. As for Manchester City, they will sit down with Leipzig and discuss a move for the €110 million Bundesliga star. For now, they are leading the chase and might finalise a deal.
Gvardiol could be an exceptional signing for this Manchester City super team. He will improve them significantly at the back, but Guardiola may have to sacrifice another star apart from Laporte to accommodate the Croat in his starting lineups.
