In an effort to bolster their central defence this summer, Real Madrid is still keeping an eye on Josko Gvardiol, a defender for Manchester City. The Croatian international has long been a target for the team, and Sportske Novosti claims that during his tenure at Real Madrid, Luka Modric personally suggested his countryman to president Florentino Perez.
Even after his lucrative transfer to the Premier League, Gvardiol’s performances have kept Madrid interested in him. But a summer transfer doesn’t seem likely at all. Gvardiol’s current contract with Manchester City expires in 2028, but he is apparently close to signing a new one that would last until 2033 and include a substantial pay rise.
The 24-year-old’s participation for Croatia’s 2026 World Cup is uncertain due to his fractured tibia, which has kept him out of action since January. As they prepare to restructure their team, Real Madrid will have to consider more practical defensive choices.
Real Madrid pushing for Man City star
In a 3-3 draw with Everton on Monday night, City lost two points in their attempt to win the Premier League this season. They will thus still be two points behind even if they defeat leaders Arsenal in their next encounter.
Although Josko Gvardiol had been out since early January, the Cityzens were essentially at full strength. However, the source claims that City has drafted a new deal worth “significantly more” than Gvardiol’s existing one in order to retain him at the Etihad until at least 2033.
This builds upon data that TEAMtalk obtained from sources in late 2025. We found out that Pep Guardiola was pushing City to reach a deal with Gvardiol. At the time, City wanted the Croatian to sign a new deal this season in order to make sure he continued to play a significant role in the team’s long-term goals. Despite Real’s interest, if the current claim is accurate, a new deal may be on the horizon.
