According to a report from Express, Manchester City have made efforts to secure a world-record transfer for Josko Gvardiol, having previously come close to striking a deal with RB Leipzig for the Croatian defender. It has been suggested that City have now submitted a fresh bid of £85 million, which includes add-ons. However, RB Leipzig has yet to accept the offer as they seek more favourable terms.
If the bid is accepted, it will set a new record for the highest transfer fee ever paid for a defender, surpassing the amount Manchester United paid for Harry Maguire in his move from Leicester City in 2019.
Gvardiol’s Outstanding Bundesliga Season
Gvardiol showcased his exceptional skills at the Red Bull Arena, making a significant impact as a key figure in Leipzig’s defensive setup last season. Throughout the previous season, the Croatian talent demonstrated his attacking prowess, netting three goals in 41 matches across various competitions for the German club.
His defensive performances were marked by consistency, with an average of 0.8 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, and 2.3 clearances per game in the Bundesliga. Additionally, his ball distribution skills were commendable, boasting an impressive pass success rate of 89.3% in the top tier of German football (stats via whoscored). Gvardiol proved an all-around asset for Leipzig, contributing both defensively and in possession from the backline.
Can Pep Guardiola End The Transfer Saga By Reaching An Agreement?
Gvardiol exhibits remarkable tackling abilities and a sharp sense of danger, enabling him to regain possession for his team on the defensive end swiftly. He shows great decisiveness in making clearances when needed and excels in initiating play from the backline.
Standing tall at 1.85m, the Croatian sensation also brings a strong aerial presence to the field, making him a force to be reckoned with during set pieces and defensive duels. With these exceptional attributes, he has the potential to thrive under the expert guidance of Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
If Pep Guardiola can reach an agreement with the Bundesliga club this summer, adding Gvardiol would significantly reinforce City’s defensive options, providing healthy competition for established players like Ruben Dias and John Stones. Moreover, at only 21 years old, he represents a valuable long-term investment for the club, promising a bright future.
It is more likely for the Sky Blues to complete the deal before the deadline as Gvardiol seems inclined to move to the Etihad Stadium as they come on the back of a treble-winning season. Gvardiol would have a greater stage to showcase his talents, and he would certainly be looking at a long-term future with the Mancunian giants.
