Premier League champions Manchester City have received a significant boost in their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol, who is valued at €114 million. The Etihad officials are eager to refresh Pep Guardiola’s squad in order to solidify their position as England’s top team. As part of their plans, City has shortlisted potential signings, with central defense being a key area of focus. Should Aymeric Laporte leave the club, Gvardiol has emerged as the top candidate to replace him. In a recent development, Gvardiol has expressed his openness to a move this summer, which intensifies Manchester City’s interest in the talented center-back.
According to a report by Paul Hirst of The Times, Gvardiol will inform RB Leipzig of his desire to explore transfer offers after their final match of the season, the German cup final against Eintracht Frankfurt. This news significantly boosts Manchester City’s hopes of securing the 21-year-old Croatian defender. However, potential suitors must prepare for the substantial transfer fee associated with Gvardiol. His current contract includes a release clause of €114 million, although Leipzig may consider offers around €100 million.
Other Manchester City targets for the summer
In other transfer news, Manchester City is actively pursuing Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic. Chelsea has granted permission to the club to hold talks with the 29-year-old Croatian international. The two clubs are expected to negotiate a transfer fee swiftly, once personal terms are agreed upon. Chelsea is likely to seek an offer in the region of £35 million for Kovacic.
Meanwhile, Manchester City is awaiting decisions from Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gundogan regarding their future at the club. Both midfielders have yet to determine where they will continue their careers beyond the 2022/23 season.
Manchester City’s proactive approach to the transfer market demonstrates their ambition to strengthen the squad and maintain their dominance in English football. Moreover, the pursuit of talents like Gvardiol and Kovacic highlights their commitment to assembling a formidable team under the guidance of Pep Guardiola. As the summer transfer window unfolds, City fans eagerly await the outcome of these potential signings. This could further enhance their team’s prospects for the upcoming season.
