Manchester City are closing in on the signing of ‘Croatian God’ Josko Gvardiol (21, Leipzig). The move also strengthens the case for Kim Min-jae (27, Napoli) to join Bayern Munich.
European soccer transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano said on social media on Friday (April 25): “City have now reached a personal agreement with Gbardiol. Pep Guardiola holds him in high regard.” 메이저사이트
Of course, there is still a mountain to climb. The high transfer fee demanded by Leipzig. “Discussions will take place between the clubs,” Romano said. Leipzig want to keep Gvardiol and will not sell him for less than €100 million,” he said, adding, “Leipzig want him to become the most expensive center back in history.”
City are looking to add to their defense in case Aymeric Laporte leaves this summer. Guardiola does not intend to block a move for Laporte, who fell out of contention for a starting spot last season. Laporte struggled with injuries in 2022-2023, making just 11 league starts.
Kyle Walker has also been linked with a move to Bayern Munich. With City playing three at the back, signing a central defender is not an option. With John Stones moving up to play as a defensive midfielder, City are looking to add another reliable defender.
Gvardiol and Kim Min-jae were the two leading candidates, but it seems that City chose Gvardiol first. Born in 2002, he is still only 21 years old, but he is already recognized as one of the best players in Europe.
Gvardiol joined Leipzig in 2021 and quickly established himself in the first-team, and he has also been a standout for the Croatian national team. He was a regular defender at the last World Cup in Qatar, where he helped Croatia reach the quarterfinals. Gvardiol is a rare left-footed center back, which is something Guardiola would love to have. 안전토토사이트
As the Daily Mail reports, “City are keeping tabs on Gbardiol, one of the best young defenders in Europe. But he is contracted to Leipzig until 2027. Leipzig could demand as much as £85 million ($141.8 million).” “Gervinho can play as a central defender and left-back. He could solve some of Guardiola’s problems.”