Joško Gvardiol’s long-term future lies at Manchester City amid Real Madrid’s interest.
New Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has identified him as his main defensive target.
Last week, we relayed news that Barcelona also made a concrete attempt to sign him, but Manchester City didn’t entertain them.
Three days ago, Sport Witness covered claims from Spain of the Premier League side’s new renewal offer to fend off Real Madrid.
Update from Croatia on Manchester City future
Sportske Novosti first relay claims made elsewhere of Real Madrid wanting the 24-year-old mainly because of José Mourinho.
The La Liga giants reportedly want to sign the Croatia international for around €70-80m to please their manager.
Manchester City invested €90m to sign Joško Gvardiol from RB Leipzig in August 2023 and view the defender as the key part of their long-term plans. The outlet claims the option of his summer transfer for less than €90m is ‘illogical’.
Pep Guardiola has left the Etihad and Enzo Maresca will soon be appointed as his successor. The latter previously worked as the Spaniard’s assistant and knows the club well.
Maresca and the English club consider the centre-back, who can also operate as a left-back, as a key part of their plans. Therefore, Manchester City sporting director Hugo Viana is working hard on securing his renewal.
Sportske Novosti are confident the player will eventually sign an extension as there’s ‘no doubt’ of his renewal before the start of next season.
Gvardiol’s new contract will at least be until 2032 and there’ll be a significant salary raise.
The outlet states that at this stage of his career, it’s best for him to continue where he is. There’s belief he’s yet to reach his peak. Once that happens, he can think of joining Real Madrid, Barcelona or Bayern Munich in four to five years.
Contract, value and agent info
Joško Gvardiol’s current deal runs down in 2028, and Transfermarkt value him at €70m.
Agent Marjan Sisic represents the Croatian, who made 25 appearances for Manchester City this season.