Manchester City have announced the signing of Josko Gvardiol, who joins the club from RB Leipzig in a deal worth £77million. The centre-back is widely regarded as one of the best defensive talents in world football, though he has admitted that he feels he can improve even further.
Gvardiol has impressed over the last two years in the Bundesliga, with his performances for Croatia at the Qatar World Cup confirming his promise. Chelsea and Liverpool were both credited with holding an interest in the 21-year-old, though City have pounced to strike a deal.
Pep Guardiola is credited as being a key reason why Gvardiol opted to make the move to City, as well as the opportunity to reunite with fellow summer signing – and international teammate – Mateo Kovacic.
Speaking after penning his contract at the Etihad, the defender explained: “I have always dreamed of one day playing in England and to be doing so now with Manchester City – after the season they have just had – is a real honour for me.
“Anyone who saw Manchester City play last season knows they are the best team in the world. To win the Treble says everything you need to know about the quality this team has. To be joining City is something very special for me and my family.
“To have the chance to work with Pep Guardiola, too, will be amazing. I know I am not yet the finished article and I am sure my game will progress under the best coach in football. To be linking up with Mateo Kovacic will also be special. He’s a top footballer and I hope we can both help City achieve another successful season in 2023/24 and then beyond.”
Despite his reputation and significant transfer fee, Gvardiol is still not the most expensive defender in the Premier League. That title belongs to Harry Maguire following his £80m move from Manchester United in 2019. The Red Devils’ pricey purchase continues to be scrutinised, with some believing that the transfer fee forked out is a key reason why the England international has struggled at Old Trafford.
United are now looking to cut their losses on Maguire this summer, despite his desire to remain at the club and fight to reclaim his spot in Erik ten Hag’s starting eleven. West Ham are particularly keen to sign the 30-year-old, having already seen a bid for his services rejected earlier this summer.