Josko Gvardiol, who has played 88 games for RB Leipzig, is on the brink of becoming a Manchester City player, according to manager Pep Guardiola.
The 22-year-old Croatian international defender is undergoing a medical, with completion of the £77m move from RB Leipzig expected within hours. “He’s here for his medical, and we’re hopeful that the deal can be finalized in the coming hours,” stated Guardiola.
Guardiola also spoke on the uncertain futures of Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva, who are garnering significant attention. Bayern Munich has their sights set on English defender Walker, 33, and Silva, the 28-year-old Portuguese winger, is drawing substantial interest from Saudi Arabia, as well as from long-time suitor Barcelona.
“We’ll make every effort to retain them,” said Guardiola. “Unlike [Ilkay] Gundogan, they’re under contract. We want them to stay because they want to stay. Losing Kyle and Bernardo would be a big blow.”
This transfer season, City has already seen the departure of former captain Gundogan to Barcelona after his contract ran out and forward Riyad Mahrez, who was bought by Al-Ahli as part of the Saudi Pro league’s significant recruitment push.
Guardiola emphasized his priority is to work with players who want to stay at City. He also said that due to the club’s reputation, they often have to pay a ‘premium’ to acquire new players.
“I prefer to work with those who wish to stay here. Otherwise, we expect a fair offer,” said Guardiola. “Unless a fair offer is received, Silva is still our player and we want him here. If Barcelona wants him, they’ll need to speak to our sporting director and CEO to reach an agreement.”
Guardiola also noted the financial hurdles associated with signing new players for Manchester City, stating, “Just because we are Man City, players are often £10-15m more expensive. If other clubs are interested in our crucial players, they’ll first need to make a decent offer – something that has yet to happen. When it does, we’ll strive to extend their contracts and keep them with us.”
Silva is reportedly conflicted about his future, appreciating his achievements at City and the potential for more in the future, but considering whether it’s time for a new challenge and a move to a climate more akin to his Portuguese origins. A transfer to Barcelona is a lifelong aspiration for Silva, although he realizes the club’s financial issues may prevent them from offering a deal that meets City’s expectations.
For all the latest news, insights, and fan views on Manchester City, sign up for notifications. Our Manchester City coverage is now better and more extensive than ever. Here’s all you need to know to ensure you stay updated. Navigate straight to the best content about Everything City.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Manchester City transfers
Who is the new player Manchester City is close to signing?
Manchester City is close to finalizing the signing of Josko Gvardiol, a Croatian defender from RB Leipzig, for a fee of £77m.
How many appearances has Josko Gvardiol made for RB Leipzig?
Josko Gvardiol has made 88 appearances for RB Leipzig.
What are the future plans for Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva at Manchester City?
As of now, the future of Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva at Manchester City is uncertain. Both players have attracted interest from other clubs, but City’s manager Pep Guardiola has expressed the desire to retain them.
Who are the notable players that have left Manchester City this summer?
So far this summer, Manchester City has lost Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona and Riyad Mahrez to Al-Ahli.
What is the stance of Pep Guardiola on the future signings and player retention?
Guardiola stated that he wants to work with players who want to stay at Manchester City. He also acknowledged that the club often has to pay a premium to bring in new players due to their status. In the case of important players attracting interest from other clubs, he insisted that a proper offer needs to be made before any negotiations begin.
More about Manchester City transfers
- Manchester City Official Website
- Premier League Transfers
- RB Leipzig Official Website
- Josko Gvardiol Profile
- Pep Guardiola Profile
- Bernardo Silva Profile
- Kyle Walker Profile
8 comments
So we’re spending another 77m on a defender! Does Pep think defense wins championships or what?
City spending another fortune, eh? Classic City! 😀
Not sure about Gvardiol, but trust in Pep. He knows what he’s doing.
walker n silva gotta stay. they’ve been so key for us these past years, cant imagine the team without them.
losing Gundogan was bad enough, but if Silva leaves too, it’ll be a disaster.
Silva to Barca would be dream move for him and us. make it happen!
Gvardiol is a fantastic player. Man City fans, you’re in for a treat!
Trust in Pep, guys. He’s got a plan and he’s stickin to it. Just wait and watch!