LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Josko Gvardiol wants to sign for Manchester City this summer, according to RB Leipzig’s sporting director.
Joko Gvardiol is a defender from Croatia, and Pep Guardiola wants to bring him to Manchester City. It now seems like a deal is getting closer.
According to reports, the 21-year-old defender and the triple winners have already reached a personal agreement, but RB Leipzig has now revealed that they are in transfer negotiations with City.
Max Eberl, the sports director of RB Leipzig, told the German publication LVZ on Sunday: “I can confirm that Joko Gvardiol and his agents informed us of their wish to transfer to Manchester City.
“Manchester and we are now in conversation. That’s all that can be said at this time.”
Leipzig are apparently holding out for a bid of at least €100 million, which would make Gvardiol the most expensive defender in history.
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City is eager to strengthen their defence after previously paying £25 million to Chelsea for midfielder Mateo Kovacic.
Gvardiol is seen as the ideal acquisition as Spanish centre-back Aymeric Laporte is expected to go, and City has not yet succeeded in persuading Kyle Walker to stay.
Gvardiol’s Leipzig contract contains a £97 million release clause that goes into effect in 2024, but City wants to sign him now.
The youthful centre-defender has long been admired by Guardiola, who particularly appreciates his skills in possession of the ball and in competition.
City manager would rather recruit Gvardiol than a full-back because he intends to use a four-centre-back formation again next season.
