Real Madrid given fresh hope in signing star Premier League defender | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been given reason to believe they could be in with a chance of signing star Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol this summer. Initially it appeared a tall ask to pursue a deal for the Croatian defender, who is one of Jose Mourinho’s personal requests.

Los Blancos are focusing their summer business on improving their backline and their midfield, and Gvardiol is one of the names that Mourinho has suggested could make a difference for him. He is keen to sign a physical left-back that can also play in central defence, giving him the capability to cycle between a back three and a back four.

Gvardiol puts Manchester City talks on hold for Real Madrid

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According to Sky Sports DE journalist Florian Plettenberg, Gvardiol is considering just two options this summer, amid links to Bayern Munich too. He will only extend his contract with City, which currently expires in 2028, or look for a move to Real Madrid. Given the time left on his deal, City will no doubt consider cashing in on Gvardiol if he is keen to leave, as his value will be much lower next year.

Diario AS (via Caught Offside) in Spain say that Gvardiol has now put contract talks with Manchester City on hold, to give Los Blancos a chance to put together an offer. No doubt the World Cup is also playing a role in that. Real Madrid have begun work on a deal, as they look to satisfy one of Mourinho’s requests.

Real Madrid looking to revamp defence

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The left-back spot is the only position yet to be reinforced this summer, with Inter right wingback Denzel Dumfries set to arrive for €20m, and a deal agreed for Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate to arrive on a free transfer. With three left-backs already in their squad – Ferland Mendy, Fran Garcia and Alvaro Carreras – it seems likely that at least one if not two of those players will be asked to depart at some point.