Liverpool explored a deal for RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol in January, but he could now join Manchester City, as per Fabrizio Romano.
The Italian journalist offered updates on the Croatian defender while speaking to GiveMeSport.
“For Gvardiol, they [Liverpool] love him. Already in January, they explored the conditions of the deal. The reality is that this is too expensive. After they left the race for Jude Bellingham because he was too expensive, I don’t see Liverpool going to spend €100m [around £86m] on a centre-back.”
Moreover, he went to give updates on Man City’s interest in the defender.
“Understand Manchester City are advancing on Josko Gvardiol deal on player side. Negotiations on personal terms are progressing well, same as [Mateo] Kovacic. Leipzig will only sell Gvardiol for huge fee otherwise they are prepared to keep him for one more season.”
City to make a move for Liverpool target, Gvardiol
The centre-half has been in high demand ever since impressing at Leipzig, thus, the German club have put a high price tag on the player.
So if things are realistic, Liverpool would not be able to sign the Croatian against the mighty Man City.
Not just pertaining to the cost, the player would have also chosen the treble winners over Europa League candidates. This would have been a no-brainer for the player.
However, we do know City are known to be one of the best when it comes to managing player business. They have at times walked away from deals if they feel they’re getting ripped off.
If Leipzig holds out for the enormous fee they’re hoping for, then perhaps City will feel it’s no longer worth it.
That scenario now looks like being the only one where Liverpool still have a shot at the Croatian international. Should he stay at Leipzig another season, maybe the Reds can use next year’s budget to bring him in.
For now though, with such a big midfield rebuild needing to be sorted, there’s no logic in blowing £86m on a centre-back, as good as he is.
I’m a football enthusiast and an avid writer and someone who lives by the Bill Shankly quote, on a day to day basis.
