Man City still 'optimistic' of signing Josko Gvardiol and more transfer rumours
Manchester City remain 'optimisitc' about signing Josko Gvardiol this summer, according to reports.
Although there have been significant departures in the form of Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez as well as the sales of several youngsters, it's been a quiet summer in terms of incomings for City. Croatian Mateo Kovacic is the only signing so far as he was bought from Chelsea for an initial £25million to replenish the midfield numbers.
As the season quickly approaches and the future of several more stars remains uncertain, City are still working on bringing in their top target of Gvardiol. Pep Guardiola wants to add more centre-back options after switching to an all centre-back defence last season.
Additionally, Aymeric Laporte, Joao Cancelo and Kyle Walker could all still leave the Etihad this summer if appropriate offers are made. As a result, City turned their focus towards Gvardiol and the Croatian colossus is the biggest priority.
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MEN Sport reported in early July that RB Leipzig want £85m for the 21-year-old plus additional performance-related payments but City are not yet ready to meet that valuation despite advanced talks. All parties still expect a deal can be done but there appears to have been little progress made in the weeks since.
Leipzig sporting director Max Eberl told Sky Sports Germany last week: "There is no agreement with Manchester City. Not even close." However, Football Insider reports that City remain confident the deal will get done in the transfer window and that talks are at an 'advanced stage.'
Meanwhile, Barcelona are reportedly keen on Joao Cancelo.
The full-back left City under a cloud in January and spent the rest of the season on loan at Bayern
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