Premier League titan Manchester City is focusing on reinforcing its defensive stronghold by pursuing RB Leipzig's center-back Josko Gvardiol, potentially sidelining their longstanding interest in a separate high-profile target.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano suggests that Manchester City's manager Pep Guardiola holds Gvardiol in high esteem. Leipzig, according to Romano, is intent on making Gvardiol "the most expensive CB (center-back) ever," with an ambitious asking price of no less than €100 million ($109.01 million).
Gvardiol, 21, garnered global attention during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He was instrumental in driving Croatia to a third-place finish, scoring the initial goal in a swift seven minutes, leading to a victory against Morocco. His performance was overshadowed only by the final triumph of Argentina.
Gvardiol not only contributed significantly to his country's World Cup campaign but also etched his name in the annals of Croatian football history. He is the youngest player ever to represent the Eastern European nation and the youngest to score at a major tournament, achieving this feat at 20 years, 10 months and 24 days old.
Manchester City's intent to secure another high-profile recruit has prompted speculations about the future of their interest in West Ham United's midfielder Declan Rice.
Rice has been linked with potential moves to Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and Manchester City. Recent rumors have suggested that Rice may find himself part of Arsenal's line-up for the 2023-24 season and beyond. However, Romano has indicated that such negotiations are yet to be finalized.
West Ham United's valuation of Rice is believed to be in the region of £100 million ($125.6 million), a sum that may become financially restrictive for Manchester City if their bid for Gvardiol succeeds.
The situation is further complicated by Manchester United's reported keenness to secure Rice's services, an interest humorously alluded to by their veteran center-back Luke Shaw.
Manchester City recently claimed a triumphant treble, securing the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and FA Cup titles. Their late surge in the season saw them snatch the Premier League crown from Arsenal, who were widely anticipated to claim the victory.
The future of Rice's potential move to Manchester City is uncertain. However, if the club proceeds with the acquisition of Gvardiol, it may pave the way for other clubs to make their move for the English midfielder.
