Manchester City have reportedly held discussions with RB Leipzig over a summer deal for Josko Gvardiol.
The 21-year-old was again in strong form for Leipzig during the 2022-23 campaign, featuring on 41 occasions in all competitions, contributing three goals in the process.
Gvardiol has now been with his German club for the last two seasons, making 87 appearances, and his form has led to suggestions of interest from a number of leading European clubs.
Leipzig are in a strong position when it comes to the Croatia international's future, with his current deal due to run until June 2027, while a release clause of close to £100m is not expected to become active until 2024.
Chelsea, at one stage, were said to be the favourites for the defender, but the London club's struggles during the 2022-23 campaign have reportedly seen them drop down the pecking order.
Liverpool and Real Madrid are also thought to be keen, but according to Football Insider, Man City are in a strong position to sign the youngster during this summer's transfer window.
The report claims that Pep Guardiola's side have held discussions with Leipzig and will accelerate their interest after the Champions League final against Inter Milan on Saturday night.
Gvardiol is said to be the English club's 'top target' for this summer, with Man City confident of agreeing a deal despite Leipzig's strength of position when it comes to any negotiations.
The defender represented Croatia at the 2022 World Cup, making seven appearances at the competition, helping his country to finish third in Qatar.
Gvardiol's agent Marjan Sisic said towards the end of last year that his client is "totally happy" at Leipzig and insisted that a transfer this summer had not already been agreed.
"Regarding a possible transfer in summer 2023 we are not in a hurry and I can make clear that there are no pre-agreements with any clubs," German journalist Florian Plettenberg quoted Sisic as saying at the time.
"For sure, a lot of top clubs have informed about him but Josko has a long-term contract in Leipzig. Josko feels totally happy in Leipzig. His development is amazing and RB [Leipzig] is playing very good under Marco Rose."
Man City, meanwhile, are said to be looking to accelerate contract discussions with Nathan Ake, with the Dutchman in line for a new long-term deal at the Etihad Stadium.
The Premier League champions are also expected to be in the market for at least one central midfielder this summer, with club captain Ilkay Gundogan, who only has a deal until the end of the month, currently being heavily linked with an exit. body check tags ::
