Manchester City have now long been linked with a move for Josko Gvardiol.
The Croatia international is the top central defender target for City this summer, with the club feeling he has the potential to become one of the best in the world.
Gvardiol has seriously impressed in recent times with RB Leipzig.
So as good as City have been at the back over the last few months, there is a strong desire to sign him.
For many though, it feels as though it just isn’t really going anywhere right now.
But Athletic reporter David Ornstein dropped an encouraging update last night for those getting impatient.
David Ornstein gives a positive update on Josko Gvardiol
Last night, The Athletic’s official Twitter account posted a video clip of Ornstein answering a question about City’s pursuit of Gvardiol.
The question was ‘Are the Gvardiol to City links slowing down?’
Ornstein replied: “Gvardiol is Man City’s key target. Just because there might be much news in recent days, that doesn’t mean it has slowed down. Leipzig want a reported €100 million (£85 million), City are keen to do it for less. So talks will be ongoing and these things often take time.
“Don’t forget City are pretty strict with their valuations. They’ve never been afraid to walk away from deals if the numbers aren’t right.
“It’s also possible City need to move someone out, before Gvardiol comes in. Aymeric Laporte for example.
“But the current consensus across the industry is that it will get done.”
On Sunday, journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that the two clubs would be holding more talks this week.
Patience required over Gvardiol
It’s not an absolutely done deal, but it seems as though City have a very strong chance of landing Gvardiol from what Ornstein has said.
There’s no agreement yet with Leipzig. The likelihood is that City are trying to get him for a bit less than the asking price.
Perhaps there is also work to do over how the fee will be paid.
But all this time, there hasn’t really been mention of any other clubs in the mix.
That is a good sign, and hopefully City can soon just close this deal for a player described as an ‘extraordinary talent’ by Croatia legend Ivica Olic.
