Barcelona Turn Attention to Josko Gvardiol
Barcelona have stunned the transfer market with the signing of Antony Gordon from Newcastle United for €70 million + €10 million addons](https://www.livebarca.com/news/antony-gordon-chooses-barcelona-after-bayern-agreement) in a quick deal with the english club .
According to COPE, Barcelona are actively working on the deal to sign versatile defender Josko Gvardiol from Manchester City.
Italian defender Alessandro Bastoni was the priority for Barcelona, but later the interest cooled down because Hansi Flick suggested that the player would not suit his system. Barcelona is now concentrating on acquiring Croatian defender Gvardiol to fill the left center-back position.
Versatility and Technical Quality Make Gvardiol a Top Target
The 24-year-old joined Manchester City in the summer of 2023 following his impressive performance at the Qatar World Cup for Croatia.
Manchester City signed the Croatian international for €90 million from RB Leipzig, which makes Gvardiol the second most expensive defender in the world.
Gvardiol delivered an impressive performance for Manchester City in the left-back role. The defender thrived in the left-back role with ball-carrying, pace, and accurate deliveries; he also became a threat for opponents in set-piece situations with his heading ability.
Josko Gvardiol is considered one of the most technically gifted defenders in the world. In the 2025-26 season, Pep Guardiola shifted the player from the left-back role to the left center back, and he delivered excellent performances in the role despite playing that role after a long time.
Barca Prepare for Expensive Battle to Land Gvardiol
The versatility and technical qualities of Gavriil attract Barcelona. The player has 2 years of contract left, so there is uncertainty regarding his future, especially following the departure of Pep Guardiola.
Manchester City has reportedly spent about €90 million to bring the Croatian to the team, so the asking price will be above that for Barcelona in this pursuit.
