Liverpool are reportedly taking an active interest in a summer move for Josko Gvardiol.
The Croatian defender, with a release clause set at ‘close to £100m’, has been linked with the Reds for the past few months, and the RB Leipzig gem is believed to be considering his options ahead of the next window. transfer.
Graeme Bailey reported the news for 90 minutes, with the journalist tweeting (via @GraemeBailey): “Josko Gvardiol weighing options ahead of summer transfer decision. Chelsea have been linked for a long time, but the manhunt for him is heating up.
“Real Madrid are positioning themselves, but Man City and Liverpool are now actively interested. @90min_Football“
Within the report, it is stated: “Sources have confirmed to 90min that both Manchester City and Liverpool have sent scouts to keep regular updates on the defender, with the two heavyweights making sure to stay informed.
“The final decision will rest with Gvardiol, but a move this summer looks increasingly likely as clubs will also want to try and avoid having to pay a release clause of close to £100m which comes into effect next year.” .
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The 21-year-old is on record as saying he is a Reds supporter, which on a superficial level could give Jurgen Klopp’s side an advantage in this transfer hunt.
However, when viewed in a broader context, we may not have the scope to bet much on the Croatian, considering the possible activity elsewhere over the summer.
According to Fabrizio Romano in his Daily Briefing for CaughtOffside, midfield will be the priority position for Liverpool in the upcoming transfer window, with Jude Bellingham potentially costing up to £130m if we can get him through the Anfield gates.
Averaging an impressive 1.4 aerial duels per game in the Bundesliga (WhoScored), Gvardiol may well be seen as an ideal potential addition to our back four, especially given his tender age and passing ability.
According to FBref, the 6-foot powerhouse ranks in the top 1% of center backs in Europe’s top five leagues over the last 12 months in passes per game at 88.14.
However, as outlined above, meeting his £100m release clause while trying to prioritize other areas of the team might not be feasible for Liverpool this summer.
You can see Bailey’s tweet below (via @GraemeBailey):
Josko Gvardiol weighing options ahead of the summer transfer decision.
Chelsea have been linked for a long time, but the manhunt for him is heating up.
Real Madrid are positioning themselves but Man City and Liverpool are now actively interested.@90min_Football https://t.co/OoNz5nYM1g
— Graeme Bailey (@GraemeBailey) March 2, 2023
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