Gvardiol Set to Snub Real Madrid, Sign New Deal with Manchester City

Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol is reportedly on the verge of signing a new long-term contract with the club, extending his stay until June 2031. According to Fabrizio Romano, negotiations are in their final stages, and the club is confident of securing the 24-year-old Croatian's agreement soon.

For weeks, rumors have circulated that José Mourinho was keen on bringing Gvardiol to Real Madrid, with the Spanish giants attempting to persuade the central defender to make the move. However, Sportske novosti reports that Gvardiol is convinced that remaining at the Etihad Stadium is the best decision for his career at this stage. The Croatian publication even suggests the new deal could be for an even longer period, potentially until the summer of 2032.

The new agreement is also expected to include a significant salary increase for Gvardiol.

Manchester City acquired the Croatian international from RB Leipzig three years ago for a fee of 90 million euros. Since then, he has made 122 appearances for the Citizens, scoring 13 goals and becoming a pivotal figure in Josep Guardiola's squad. His manager's recent departure is not expected to impact Gvardiol's future at the club.