According to a report from ESPN, Fabrizio Romano has mentioned in a tweet that Manchester City are contemplating the possibility of signing RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol for a record-breaking transfer fee.
Manchester City consider Josko Gvardiol a top target as Mateo Kovacic — he’s in the list since last year, talks already took place. Player, keen on the move. 🚨🔵 #MCFC
Leipzig will only sell Gvardiol for huge fee as most expensive centre back ever.
🎥 https://t.co/sgUBhcaQNC pic.twitter.com/I7E4B3KKTu
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 12, 2023
The last record is held by Manchester United, who signed Harry Maguire for £80 million from Leicester City. The German outfit have maintained their stance that Gvardiol will not be released unless a massive offer is put on the table.
Gvardiol’s Impressive Campaign At Red Bull Arena
Guardiola has enjoyed a strong season at the Red Bull Arena, consistently delivering impressive performances in the defence. He has scored three goals in over 40 appearances for RB Leipzig across all competitions. Gvardiol’s contributions also helped Croatia secure qualification to the knockout rounds of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, featuring in all three group-stage matches.
The Croatian international has displayed impressive statistics at his club, averaging 0.8 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, and 2.3 clearances per game in the Bundesliga. He has also demonstrated accuracy in his passing, completing 89.3% of his attempted passes in the German top division (stats via whoscored).
Can Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola Make It Happen?
The 21-year-old defender has a solid presence in the defensive third as he can quickly sense the danger to clear his lines and make some crucial interceptions to win the ball back for his side. He has shown immense potential and the physical attributes to become one of the best in Europe at such a tender age.
The exceptional performances of the Croatian centre-back in the defensive line have attracted the attention of numerous clubs. With his remarkable abilities, he possesses the potential to surpass many defenders in the coming years.
Pep Guardiola has done well to identify him, as his arrival at the Etihad Stadium would bring in more competition in the defensive department for the likes of Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji. Coming on the back of a treble-winning season, Guardiola can definitely persuade the Croatian youngster to join them at the Etihad Club as it would bring in plenty of prospects for him.
The only factor that could affect the deal is the massive transfer fee that the German outfit is demanding. If the Sky Blues make an enticing offer, Gvardiol might be on the cusp of switching to the Premier League.
