Transfer News: Manchester United join race for RB Leipzig centre-back Josko Gvardiol
According to The Telegraph (Subscription Required), Manchester United have entered the race to secure the signature of RB Leipzig centre-back Josko Gvardiol ahead of the summer transfer window. He is widely regarded as one of the best upcoming young defenders in world football, having already established himself as a regular for club and country.
Man United are looking into the market for central defensive additions to improve their backline ahead of the next season. They are expected to provide Erik ten Hag with the right tools to facilitate a squad rebuild to get them back to their old glory days. That means bolstering their declined team with quality signings this summer.
The Red Devils have now identified Gvardiol as an option to strengthen their defence moving forward. That being said, they will face competition from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, who are actively vying to get their hands on the highly-rated centre-half.
Who is Josko Gvardiol?
The 20-year-old is primarily a central defender in trade but can also deputise as a left-back when called upon. Being a left-footed centre-half, he has all the qualities that are needed to slot into the left-hand side of the backline, which could certainly be of help for us looking at Harry Maguire’s struggles in defence.
Gvardiol joined Leipzig last summer, but he has not shown any signs of difficulties despite the 2021-22 campaign being his first season in Europe. He has already made his mark in the Croatia national team as well, which is a nod to his quality and the massive potential he possesses in his bag.
The Bundesliga ace has made 46 appearances for the German club since joining them and has two goals and three assists to his name across all competitions. He also has 14 clean sheets during that period and has even helped his side win the DFB Pokal title last term.
Despite taking the initial steps in his playing career, Gvardiol has carried himself as a veteran, which is the reason for his instant success in Germany. What’s impressive is his ability to combine his aggressive style of play with his apt skills on the ball, making him an attractive signing indeed.
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Furthermore, the Leipzig youngster’s influence is not just restricted to the defence as he is very involved in the forward areas as well. Signing him would greatly improve our defensive set-up, which has suffered from instability throughout the last season.
That being said, Gvardiol’s transfer would be expensive as he is expected to cost between £40million and £50million despite just enjoying a breakthrough campaign in Europe. That being said, the Blues and Spurs would pose considerable threats since they can offer Champions League football as an incentive, unlike us.
