Manchester City are working to tie Josko Gvardiol down to a new long-term contract as the Premier League champions seek to fend off growing interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
The Croatia international has emerged as a target for Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich ahead of the summer transfer window, but City remain determined to keep hold of one of their most important defensive players.
According to Ben Jacobs, negotiations are underway over a deal that would keep Gvardiol at the Etihad Stadium until 2030, with the possibility of an additional club option also being discussed. Director of football Hugo Viana is leading talks and considers the defender a central figure in the club’s long-term plans.
City’s Firm Valuation and Transfer Stance
City’s stance is clear. The club has reportedly placed a minimum valuation of €90 million on the 24-year-old and would only consider a sale if an exceptional offer arrived.
Internally, Gvardiol is viewed as a cornerstone of the defensive structure that incoming manager Enzo Maresca intends to build as he prepares for his first season in charge.
Gvardiol’s Role and Tactical Importance
Gvardiol joined City with a reputation as one of the most complete young defenders in world football and has continued to strengthen that reputation during his time in Manchester.
His ability to operate both as a centre-back and as a left-back has made him one of the most versatile defenders in the game, while his composure in possession and progressive passing have made him ideally suited to City’s style of play.
Injury-Interrupted 2025–26 Season
His 2025-26 season, however, was heavily disrupted by injury. A serious tibia fracture suffered in January sidelined him for four months and significantly reduced his playing time during the second half of the campaign.
Despite the lengthy absence, Gvardiol still managed 25 appearances across all competitions, scoring two goals and providing four assists.
In the Premier League, he appeared 18 times, making 16 starts, and registered two goals and two assists. His influence in possession remained evident, recording an impressive 91 per cent pass completion rate.
He also appeared in five UEFA Champions League matches, all as a starter, contributing one assist and maintaining a remarkable 95 per cent pass completion rate. A further assist came in two EFL Cup appearances before injury curtailed his season.
European Interest Intensifies
Interest from Real Madrid has intensified in recent weeks. Reports in Spain have suggested that Jose Mourinho is eager to add a left-footed defender capable of operating in multiple defensive roles, with Gvardiol fitting that profile perfectly.
His combination of defensive reliability, athleticism and technical quality has made him one of the most sought-after defenders in European football.
Player’s Future and International Role
However, a move away from Manchester currently appears unlikely. Recent reports indicate that Gvardiol remains settled at City and is expected to prioritise signing a new contract. The club are equally confident that an agreement can be reached despite ongoing discussions.
The defender has also remained an important figure for Croatia, making five appearances during World Cup qualifying and contributing one goal and one assist.