Journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that no bids have yet been made for Manchester United-linked defender Josko Gvardiol.
Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg has said that United are ‘highly involved’ in the race to sign Gvardiol from RB Leipzig.
Real Madrid, Barcelona and Chelsea are also thought to be in the hunt, with journalist Simon Phillips suggesting that the west London club will ‘push strongly’ for his signature this winter.
Meanwhile, speaking to Sky via The Express, the player’s agent has said that his client is currently happy at Leipzig and that no pre-agreed deals for the summer of 2023 have been made.
And speaking on The United Stand YouTube channel, Romano has dropped his verdict on the current state of play.
He said: “There is nothing agreed between Gvardiol and Chelsea. This is important to clarify, because I saw two stories in the last two or three months saying that there was a release clause for €45m and this is not true.
“They want way more than this. RB Leipzig refused an important proposal from Chelsea in the final days of the [summer] transfer window. Chelsea, 24 hours before the deadline, they offered €80m plus €10m in add-ons for Gvardiol, to sign him in the summer of 2023 and RB Leipzig said no, and two days after, he signed a new deal.
“It’s true that Chelsea are actively working to sign Gvardiol.
“But at the moment, there is still nothing agreed. It is an open race. Manchester United know the player very well, they appreciate the player, but I am told that Man United have still made no bid for Josko Gvardiol.”
TIF Thoughts on Gvardiol and United…
Will Manchester United find new owners in 2023?Yes
No
|
Previously dubbed a ‘monster’ by Romano, we think the Croatian colossus would be a superb addition to any side given his age and dazzling performances at the World Cup, but it will take quite a hefty sum to secure his services it seems.
Leipzig sporting director Markus Krosche said that the 20-year-old is ‘one of the greatest European defensive talents’, while Red Devils legend Rio Ferdinand has also heralded his ability, labelling him as his ‘favourite’ defender at the World Cup.
With such glowing praise, it is clear to see why Europe’s heaviest hitters are all circling, but it remains to be seen if United can come out on top in this one.