Barcelona considered move for Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol

Barcelona monitored Josko Gvardiol last season as they assessed potential defensive reinforcements, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The 24-year-old Manchester City defender attracted interest partly because of uncertainty surrounding the club’s future. Manchester City are awaiting a decision in relation to their financial cases, with possible sanctions including relegation or a points deduction. Such a punishment could lead some of the club’s players to reconsider their positions.

Gvardiol was among the players identified by Barcelona as a potential target. His defensive strength and ability to start attacks from the back were viewed as qualities that could improve Hansi Flick’s options.

Barcelona’s management and Flick considered the Croatia international a suitable solution because he could provide cover in two different positions. Gvardiol is capable of playing at centre-back or as a full-back, giving him added value in a squad seeking greater defensive flexibility.

A deal, however, would have been difficult to complete. Gvardiol already earns a high salary and Manchester City were keen to improve his contract. The club also regarded him as an important member of the squad and were reluctant to allow him to leave.

Gvardiol had been a regular under Pep Guardiola and continued to play a significant role for the team after the Spanish manager’s departure.

Barcelona made enquiries about the defender’s situation but concluded that he did not want to change clubs. He had also received an offer to renew his contract with Manchester City, further reducing the likelihood of a move to Camp Nou.

The Catalan club therefore turned its attention to other defensive targets.

Gvardiol’s appeal came from a combination of physical strength, his ability to stop opposition attacks and his quality in possession. He is also comfortable bringing the ball out from the back, an attribute valued by Barcelona.

His versatility was another factor in the club’s assessment. The defender can operate without difficulty both in central defence and at full-back, allowing him to fill different roles during a season.

At the end of last July, Gvardiol settled his future by signing a new contract with Manchester City until 30 June 2031. The agreement also included an improved salary.

Despite that decision, the futures of several Manchester City players remain under observation from European clubs while they wait to discover the outcome of the expected punishment against the club.