Manchester City has finally announced the acquisition of RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol after a protracted transfer procedure
Since his outstanding performances for Croatia at the 2022 World Cup, the highly regarded center-back has been heavily linked with a move away from the Red Bull Arena. The 21-year-old phenom attracted interest from Real Madrid and Chelsea, but Man City won the race after caving in to Leipzig’s absurd demands.
Gvardiol will cost Man City a record £77.6 million to move to the Etihad Stadium, making him the second-most expensive center-back in international football.
After bringing in his countryman Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea during the Premier League transfer window, the former Dinamo Zagreb player is Man City’s second acquisition. Aymeric Laporte, who battled for playing time last season after making only 12 Premier League appearances, will likely no longer be a part of the team with Gvardiol’s arrival.
Since his transfer from Athletico Bilbao to Man City in January 2018, the 29-year-old has been a fixture at the centre of the defence, but he lost favour at the Etihad last season. Since the Cityzens now have up to six elite centre backs, including Gvardiol, Laporte has already been linked with a return to the Basque club.
The centre defender for Croatia’s national team, who helped his nation finish third at the World Cup, has demonstrated his worth on the largest platform in sports. However, as they get ready to defend their crowns next season, Man City will be hoping that his hefty transfer fee won’t have an impact on his undeniable quality.
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