RB Leipzig Dismiss Speculations Over Manchester City Target: Can Guardiola Make The Deal Happen?

According to a report from Manchester Evening News, RB Leipzig have categorically denied that Manchester City are any closer to finalising a deal for Joško Gvardiol, debunking premature reports of an agreement.

Lately, Several reports have surfaced claiming that Gvardiol was on the verge of undergoing a medical examination, as both clubs seemingly reached a mutual agreement on the transfer fee for the talented 21-year-old defender. However, these reports were swiftly dismissed, and instead, the player has joined his current club’s pre-season training camp in Italy, indicating no intention of leaving at this stage.

Gvardiol’s Impressive Bundesliga Campaign

Once again, Gvardiol displayed his quality at the Red Bull Arena, impressing as a central figure in Leipzig’s defence. The Croatian talent found the net thrice in 41 matches across various competitions for the German club in the previous season.

Consistency was the hallmark of the 21-year-old’s defensive performances within his own half, with an average of 0.8 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, and 2.3 clearances per game in the Bundesliga. Notably, he also showcased excellent ball distribution skills from the back, boasting an impressive pass success rate of 89.3% in the top tier of German football (stats via whoscored).

With his current contract at Leipzig set to expire in the summer of 2027, Manchester City will need to present a compelling offer if they intend to entice Gvardiol to the Etihad Stadium this summer.

Can Guardiola Bring Him To Manchester City This Summer?

Gvardiol possesses solid tackling abilities and demonstrates a keen sense of danger, quickly recovering possession for his team on the defensive end. He shows no hesitation in making clearances when necessary and excels at building play from the back.

Standing tall at 1.85m, the Croatian sensation also brings a strong aerial presence to the field. With these attributes, he holds the potential to flourish under the expert guidance of Pep Guardiola at Man City.

Gvardiol’s addition would significantly bolster City’s defensive ranks, providing competition for Ruben Dias and John Stones. Moreover, being only 21 years old, he represents a valuable long-term investment for the club.

The Sky Blues have the financial capability to afford him this summer, especially after a successful treble-winning season that makes them an attractive destination for any player. However, to secure his services, they must make a compelling offer to persuade the Bundesliga club, and it’s essential for them to act swiftly and decisively.

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RB Leipzig have claimed their has been no agreement with Manchester City over Josko Gvardiol, despite reports the defender is about to join the club.

It had looked like the Croatian was on the verge of sealing a deal to join the treble winners, with City set to smash their transfer record by signing the centre-back in a £90m deal.

The highly-rated Croatian was Pep Guardiola‘s top-target going into the window and is set to join his countryman Mateo Kovacic who completed a £25m move last month.

Gvardiol has risen to prominence since his move to the Bundesliga in 2020, making 87 appearances for Leipzig and winning back-to-back German Cups.

The youngster has also earned 21 caps for the Croatian national team and featured at the World Cup in Qatar as the side claimed the bronze medal. 

City’s big money move would break the world eclipse the current record transfer for a defender set when Man United splashed £80m on Harry Maguire from Leicester City in 2019. 

Leipzig have already suffered the loss of key men Christopher Nkunku and Dominik Szoboszlai, who have joined City’s Premier League rivals Chelsea and Liverpool.

Meanwhile, the Citizens are set to lose Riyad Mahrez after coming to an agreement on a £30m deal with Saudi club Al Ahli. 

The 32-year-old will undergo his medical on Wednesday ahead of a three-year contract with the outfit who have already captured the signatures of Edouard Mendy and Roberto Firmino.

Guardiola’s side are also on the verge of losing youngster Josh Wilson Esbrand, though the left-back will only depart for Ligue 1 side Reims on loan.