Journalist Manuel Veth has shared an update regarding Manchester City’s pursuit of Josko Gvardiol.
After agreeing personal terms with the player last over a move to the Etihad Stadium, the Citizens have apparently been in talks with RB Leipzig to negotiate a transfer fee.
Now, some extra behind-the-scenes details have come to light regarding the current situation surrounding City’s efforts in trying to secure a deal for the defender.
No progress on Gvardiol deal
In a recent Twitter post, Veth said this on the matter.
He said: “Sources on Josko Gvardiol from #RBLeipzig to Manchester City deal. No meaningful progress over the last few days. That doesn’t mean a deal is off. But with no progress on the incoming side for Leipzig either, a deal to see Gvardiol leave for #MCFC could take some time.”
During his time in Germany, the Croatian has made 87 appearances for his current side, 41 of which came during last season where he featured in all but eight of their games in all competitions.
In addition to agreeing personal terms with City, Gvardiol and his representatives have reportedly told the German club that he wants to join Pep Guardiola’s side this summer.
However, with Leipzig apparently looking to pick up €100m (£86m) for their centre-back, this could be why there has been little progress in recent days.
Bearing in mind how the club walked away from signing Declan Rice because they didn’t want to pay more than the £90m they had offered West Ham United for him, it’ll be interesting to see if they have the same approach with Gvardiol.
Moving forward, unless the Bundesliga side are willing to negotiate on the fee they’d be willing to accept for the 21-year-old, this could be a deal where City may have to pay potentially more than they may feel the player is worth if they want to add him to their squad before the summer window closes.
