Manchester City pursue £85m deal for RB Leipzig's Josko Gvardiol - report

City manager Pep Guardiola is said to be impressed by the 21-year-old centre-back, who showcased his talent at the previous World Cup.

As per BBC Sport, City have reportedly established contact with Gvardiol's representatives to explore a potential transfer.

Gvardiol possesses a release clause exceeding ‚¬110 million (£94.35m), which can be activated next summer. Consequently, Leipzig refuses to part ways with him a year ahead of schedule for a considerably lower fee.

The talented defender made 41 appearances for Leipzig last season and even scored against City in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 encounter, despite ultimately succumbing to an 8-1 aggregate defeat.

With 21 caps and a goal for Croatia, Gvardiol's versatility as a left central defender, adept in both three- and four-man defensive setups, perfectly aligns with Guardiola's requirements, especially as he faces the potential departure of Spanish international Aymeric Laporte.

Should the deal materialize, Gvardiol's transfer fee could surpass the £80 million Manchester United paid for Harry Maguire in 2019, making him the world's most expensive defender.