Barcelona admire Manchester City mainstay, could make a move if a defender leaves – report | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have fully shifted their focus on trying to secure the signing of Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid after signing Anthony Gordon.

At the same time, though, the Catalans continue to monitor the market for potential targets to reinforce other positions in the squad.

Josko Gvardiol very well-liked at Barcelona

In that regard, journalist Alex Pintanel of RAC1 reports that Barcelona highly admire Manchester City and Croatia centre-back Josko Gvardiol.

Josko Gvardiol is well-liked at Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

The Blaugrana have had him on their radars and have kept themselves up-to-date with the 24-year-old’s situation at the Etihad Stadium.

And, in case there is a departure from the current defensive unit, Barcelona could activate the option of moving for Gvardiol in the summer.

At the same time, however, the reigning La Liga champions will not ‘go crazy’ for his signing and only consider it if they feel the operation is feasible.

Gvardiol, who has a contract at Manchester City until, has left the door open for a summer departure, in case Barça or Real Madrid make a move.

A new centre-back no longer a priority

For a long while, when Barcelona were pursuing Alessandro Bastoni, it appeared that the signing of a new centre-back, preferably a left-footed one, was a priority for the summer.

The top priority for now. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

However, the situation has shifted since, with Hansi Flick & co. making it their utmost priority to sign a top-quality striker first.

Considerations are being made about a move for a new full-back as well, especially in case Jules Kounde or Alejandro Balde leave in the coming window.

So, as things stand, a move for Gvardiol does not seem like a major priority for Barcelona unless there is a defensive exit.