Barcelona are reportedly working on a deal to sign Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol, according to Cadena Cope. The Catalan club had previously been linked with Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni, but have seemingly shifted their focus to the Croatian international, who impressed them during earlier scouting reports.
Reports initially suggested Gvardiol had only one year remaining on his contract, however, the defender actually has two years left on his current deal with Manchester City, which runs until 2028. Sources indicate that the offer for Gvardiol may have originated from his representatives, rather than a direct approach from Barcelona.
This news arrives weeks after La Liga rivals Real Madrid were also offered the opportunity to sign Gvardiol. The player appears to be evaluating his options, with no immediate talks of a contract renewal with Manchester City underway. While both Spanish giants have identified central defence as an area for potential strengthening, it is currently considered a higher priority for Real Madrid.
Gvardiol has experienced a swift ascent in European football, joining RB Leipzig from Dinamo Zagreb in 2021 for a fee of €36.8m. After two seasons in the Bundesliga, Manchester City secured his services for €90m. In three seasons with City, Gvardiol has become a key player for Pep Guardiola, contributing 13 goals and 10 assists in 122 appearances. He has also demonstrated versatility by frequently featuring at left-back.
Barcelona have already secured a significant signing this summer, reaching an agreement with Newcastle United for Anthony Gordon in a deal reportedly worth around €80m. The potential addition of Gvardiol would further bolster Xavi Hernández’s squad as they aim to compete at the highest level both domestically and in Europe. The pursuit of Gvardiol could also signal a potential departure for current Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, who is reportedly open to a move abroad with the club not expected to impede his exit.
