Fabrizio Romano reveals Josko Gvardiol decision on Man City future amid Real Madrid links

Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol
Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol has been linked with Real Madrid (Image credit: Getty Images)

After three years with Manchester City, the rumour mill started turning regarding Josko Gvardiol's future in England.

The Croatian defender signed for Man City for around £77 million and still has two years left on his current deal as things stand.

However, with Pep Guardiola departing this summer, reports suggested Gvardiol might move on, too, with a switch to Spain potentially on the cards.

Josko Gvardiol's Man City decision

Just days ago, it was reported that Barcelona had made an offer for Gvardiol. Then, Croatian outlet Sportske Novosti claimed Real Madrid were also keen.

However, according to Fabrizio Romano, the 24-year-old will sign a new deal at the Etihad and stick around for a few more years.

Josko Gvardiol of Manchester City in action against Aston Villa at Etihad Stadium

(Image credit: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

The transfer expert posted on Twitter/X: "Joško Gvardiol’s new deal at Man City until June 2031 will be sealed soon, as reported yesterday.

"Formal steps to follow. Staying."

In addition, Sportske Novosti said there is now "no doubt" about Gvardiol renewing his deal with City, with sporting director Hugo Viana working hard to seal the deal.

It is thought Real Madrid were ready to offer around £60-69 million for Gvardiol, ranked at no.7 in FourFourTwo's list of the best centre-backs in the world right now.

Given his talent and significance at City, it's surely unlikely such an offer would have been entertained anyway.

LISBON, PORTUGAL - JANUARY 28: Jose Mourinho Head coach of SL Benfica during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between SL Benfica and Real Madrid C.F. at Estadio da Luz on January 28, 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

New Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho had been linked with a move for Gvardiol (Image credit: Getty Images)

Regardless, it sounds like the new deal will be in place to keep Josko Gvardiol in Manchester for quite some time.

And in FourFourTwo's view, this is the right call for City, who will hugely benefit from keeping an experienced head at the back as the club gets set for a transitional period following Guardiola's exit at the end of last season.

Jakob Barnes
Freelance Writer

Jakob has over 11 years of experience in journalism across sports, entertainment, tech, and politics. Now a freelance news writer for FourFourTwo, he covers the biggest stories from the world of football.

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