Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Croatian center-back Josko Gvardiol this summer to rebuild their defensive depth, alongside their midfield overhaul.
However, the competition for the 21-year-old is fierce, with Manchester United, Manchester City, and Real Madrid also interested.
Gvardiol has a release clause worth £97 million, which will only become active in 2024, meaning a bidding war is expected this year.
Despite the high competition, Liverpool are reportedly pushing to invest heavily this summer and sees Gvardiol as an ideal partner for Virgil van Dijk.
Previously, Gvardiol had expressed his desire to play for the Merseyside. However, there are no details on the amount that Liverpool would have to pay to secure the services of Gvardiol.
Gvardiol – Sensational for RB Leipzig
Gvardiol joined RB Leipzig in 2020 from Dinamo Zagreb and has grown to become a crucial player for the Bundesliga side.
He spent his first season at the club back on loan at Zagreb but then impressed enough to be handed a first-team spot at Leipzig and has since made 78 senior appearances for the Bundesliga side, including 32 in the current campaign.
The 21-year-old Croatia international has become one of the most desired defenders in Europe courtesy of his outstanding performance in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
His contract ties him to Leipzig until 2027, but most expect him to leave before then.
While there have been no negotiations, Gvardiol is reportedly on Liverpool’s list of defensive targets, and the summer transfer window is expected to see a scramble for his signature from Europe’s leading clubs.
Thus, the Reds will have a long transfer window this time around as there wont just be acquisitions but also some departures. It is going to be exciting to predict next season’s starting XI for the Merseysiders.