Josko Gvardiol signs new Manchester City deal as defensive rebuild begins | OneFootball

Josko Gvardiol has become the second Manchester City defender to commit his future to the club this week by signing a new deal.

The Croatia international has put pen to paper on a five-year contract, with an option for a sixth season.

Gvardiol follows Abdukodir Khusanov, who also agreed a contract extension, as City's defence for the future takes shape after the departures of John Stones and Nathan Ake.

The most expensive defender in City's history, Gvardiol cost £77m when he joined from RB Leipzig in 2023 and went on to win the club's player-of the-year award for 2024-25.

He had attracted interest from Real Madrid but said: "As soon as City wanted to renew my contract, I knew it was what I wanted."

City director of football Hugo Viana added: "Josko is already one of the best defenders in the world. Manchester City are committed to keeping our best talent, which is why we are so pleased this contract has been agreed."