Man City star eyes Real Madrid transfer as exit talk gathers pace

Real Madrid are willing to invest in their defense line this summer and have reportedly set their sight on Manchester City star Josko Gvardiol.

Madrid president Florentino Perez has announced some huge changes he’ll make if reappointed as the club’s president and this include strengthening a defence hit by injuries and uncertainty.

Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate and Inter Milan star Denzel Dumfries have been identified as his top targets. However, in addition to those two names, Los Blancos are also eyeing Gvardiol, as per AS.

According to the report, Gvardiol has made it known that he would welcome a move to the Spanish giants. Madrid view the Croatia international as an attractive option because of his quality and versatility, although any deal would depend on the financial conditions involved.

Reports suggest that Man City will attempt to convince Gvardiol to stay by offering a lucrative contract renewal aimed at increasing his salary and quashing any thoughts of an exit.

Josko Gvardiol warms up ahead of a Premier League match. (Photo by James Holyoak/MB Media/Getty Images)

However, the player’s desire to pull on the famous white shirt of Madrid remains a significant hurdle for the English club.

Gvardiol will also be left with limited competition at Real Madrid with the departures of David Alaba and Dani Carvajal, and Eder Militao sidelined with a long-term injury until late October.

Add to that the physical concerns surrounding Antonio Rudiger and the uncertain future of Raul Asencio, and it becomes clear that any new arrival will have a chance to prove themselves.

Gvardiol’s current contract at City runs until 2028 and the citizens are known for not standing in the way of players who truly wish to leave, provided their valuation is met.

Madrid are willing to make a significant effort to sign the 24-year-old, though City will not let go of a player they signed from RB Leipzig for €90 million in 2023 for a bargain fee.