Josko Gvardiol has committed his future to Manchester City, signing a new contract until June 2031 and effectively ending Real Madrid’s interest in the Croatian defender, according to Fabrizio Romano. The agreement scuppers a key target for returning Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, who aimed to overhaul the Spanish club’s defence this summer.
Madrid had identified Gvardiol as their primary target for the left-back position, with Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori also considered. However, the arrival of Marc Cucurella from Chelsea on Monday for a fee of €60m (€55m plus €5m in add-ons) has prompted a shift in strategy, making a move for Gvardiol or Calafiori redundant. Sources indicate that Arsenal never intended to sell Calafiori.
Gvardiol, who joined Manchester City from RB Leipzig last year, has quickly established himself as a key player under Pep Guardiola. The 24-year-old was reportedly aware of Real Madrid’s interest, with insiders revealing he was Los Blancos’ first choice. His decision to sign a new contract suggests a strong desire to remain at the Etihad Stadium and continue his development under Enzo Maresca, City’s new manager.
The news leaves Real Madrid potentially focusing on other targets, with Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez emerging as a possible alternative. Reports suggest Fernandez is seeking an exit from Stamford Bridge, and Real Madrid possess the financial resources – demonstrated by a recent €150m bid for Julian Alvarez, which Atletico Madrid rejected – to make a significant offer. While Michael Olise of Bayern Munich was initially a preferred attacking target, a move for the winger appears unlikely, potentially freeing up funds for midfield reinforcements like Fernandez, Mateus Fernandes, or Rodri.
