Barcelona’s proactive summer transfer window may continue with reports linking them to Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol. This follows earlier speculation about a significant agreement with Newcastle United for Anthony Gordon, reportedly around €80 million.
While Barcelona had previously shown interest in Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni, that pursuit appears to have cooled. Gvardiol was reportedly among the players who impressed Barcelona previously, though his valuation at the time was considered too high.
According to Cadena Cope, Barcelona is actively working on a deal for Gvardiol. However, the report incorrectly states he has only one year remaining on his contract; Gvardiol actually has two years left, with his current deal running until 2028. Some sources suggest this interest may stem from an offer made to Barcelona rather than a proactive move by the club.
Interest in Gvardiol is not limited to Barcelona, as rivals Real Madrid were also linked with a move for the Croatian international just weeks ago. Both clubs were reportedly offered the opportunity to sign him. It’s possible Gvardiol is exploring his options, especially with no immediate contract renewal talks reported at Manchester City. Both Madrid and Barcelona are seeking central defensive reinforcements this summer, though it’s considered a higher priority for Real Madrid.
Gvardiol has experienced a rapid career ascent. He transferred from Dinamo Zagreb to RB Leipzig in 2021 for €36.8 million and significantly increased his market value within two seasons in the Bundesliga. Manchester City acquired him for €90 million, and he has been a key player under Pep Guardiola for three seasons. During his tenure at City, Gvardiol has contributed 13 goals and 10 assists in 122 appearances and has frequently played at left-back.
