- Gvardiol has been mentioned in a fresh transfer claim
- Real Madrid are expected to be active this summer
- City remain in a strong position due to his contract
Manchester City still have important matters to settle on the pitch, but the build-up to the summer window has already brought another major name into the spotlight.
The club have already started moving through a transition period in several areas of the squad. Bernardo Silva, John Stones and Manuel Akanji are all set to leave permanently at the end of the season.
Despite the departures of older and experienced players, the younger ones aren’t expected to depart immediately.
However, Pep Guardiola’s future uncertainty might have sparked a chain reaction, as Josko Gvardiol’s camp has made an unexpected move for the summer.
Josko Gvardiol offered to Real Madrid
According to AS, Gvardiol has been offered to Real Madrid ahead of the summer transfer window. The Spanish outlet claims that the Croatian defender’s representatives are exploring possible destinations for the 24-year-old.
Los Blancos are reported to be one of Gvardiol’s preferred destinations. However, the Spanish outlet also said that there is currently no movement towards finalising a transfer.
Likewise, the talks might not even be in the negotiation stage yet. However, Man City won’t be happy about this move by Gvardiol’s camp.
Despite talks being in progress regarding an extension at the Etihad, there has been no definitive progress for some time.
City have no reason to panic
Gvardiol is not a fringe player, and neither is he approaching the end of his contract. The Croatian defender still has two seasons left on his latest deal.
With both John Stones and Manuel Akanji leaving, selling Gvardiol won’t be in City’s best interests. Likewise, Nathan Ake is also expected to depart the club, making the situation more precarious.
However, the player’s camp might be using this move to corner Man City into agreeing to certain extension demands.
Regardless, despite Real Madrid’s admiration and the defender’s move, the Sky Blues will be keen on extending his contract.
Pep Guardiola uncertainty adds wider context
Despite Guardiola’s definitive comments, the Catalan manager’s future at the Etihad remains uncertain. The gaffer’s contract in Manchester lasts till the summer of 2027.
However, there have been rumours about Guardiola planning to leave the club prematurely. Recent reports claim that an announcement is due in a few weeks.
Regardless, we can’t know for sure what the decision is unless it’s made official. However, it does affect changing room dynamics at the Etihad.
With arguably one of the best managers in the world leaving, players will want to consider their future during a club’s transitional period.
