Barcelona prepare blockbuster €80 million move for Real Madrid’s top defensive target – report | OneFootball

Barcelona’s search for a top-class left-footed defender has led them towards one of the most highly-rated defenders in European football, but completing the deal could prove far more difficult than identifying the target.

According to information revealed by Dominik Schneider, Barcelona have already presented a contract offer to Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol as they continue planning for the future of their backline. 

The Catalan giants are said to be prepared to invest around €80 million plus bonuses to bring the Croatian international to Spotify Camp Nou.

Despite that willingness to spend heavily, Barcelona are currently facing strong resistance from Manchester City, who have no intention of opening negotiations for one of their key defenders.

Double threat for Barcelona

Barcelona have made their move for Gvardiol. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)

In that regard, Barcelona are facing a double threat in their pursuit of the Croatian.

This is because City made a move last week by presenting Gvardiol with a new long-term contract proposal that includes a salary increase. 

It proves City’s serious desire to keep the defender and makes Barcelona’s task significantly more complicated.

At the same time, Barcelona are not the only club monitoring the situation. Real Madrid continue to hold an interest in the Croatian international, viewing him as a player capable of covering both centre-back and left-back positions. 

While Gvardiol is aware of Madrid’s admiration, any potential move still depends largely on Manchester City’s position.

A difficult target for Barcelona

Barcelona face several threats. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

From a sporting perspective, it is easy to understand why Barcelona admire Gvardiol. 

The club may have moved away from pursuing Alessandro Bastoni, but the need for a naturally left-footed defender remains on their agenda, and few players fit that profile better than the Manchester City star.

However, Barcelona’s immediate focus, after already securing Anthony Gordon, is to strengthen the attack, with Julian Alvarez currently viewed as the main objective. 

Thus, defensive reinforcements are expected to become a more serious discussion once work on the frontline is completed.