Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is keen on signing both RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol and Chelsea’s Mateo Kovacic this summer, according to the Daily Mail‘s Jack Gaughan.
The journalist, who is usually pretty reliable when it comes to news about the treble winners, says plans to sign Gvardiol and Kovacic will be stepped up following the club’s Champions League triumph:
— Jack Gaughan (@Jack_Gaughan) June 11, 2023
Gvardiol is known to be a key target for the Citizens, with Gaughan claiming they are “ready to intensify their interest” in the Croatian international, who could cost as much as £85m. Kovacic (valued at around £35m) is also said to be “keen” on completing his switch to the Etihad Stadium after agreeing personal terms.
Big squad changes expected as City overhaul begins
Despite a historic season, a number of players are expected to leave the Premier League champions in the coming weeks. Aymeric Laporte has already suggested that he wants to depart, with Gvardiol likely to be his replacement.
Joao Cancelo won’t be re-integrated into the first team squad after returning from his loan spell with Bayern Munich. A move abroad is said to be likelier than staying in England.
Bernardo Silva has been heavily linked with Paris Saint-Germain and there is a feeling that he will be sold to the French club. The future of captain Ilkay Gundogan is less certain. Some reports suggest that the German could still stay and sign a new contract, but a switch to Barcelona cannot be ruled out either.
Guardiola’s future
It has also been reported by multiple sources that the Spaniard will end his spell with City when his contract expires in two years’ time.
After winning nearly every major trophy during his time in England, Guardiola is said to be weighing up whether to take up an international job when he leaves Manchester.
