Barcelona could revive interest in Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol

Barcelona are monitoring Josko Gvardiol’s situation at Manchester City, with the Croatian defender potentially emerging as a target again if the Premier League club receives a severe punishment.

Manchester City could face a major change in circumstances if sanctions such as relegation or a points deduction are imposed. Such a penalty could lead several of the club’s players to reassess their futures, particularly given the depth of talent in the squad.

The Premier League announced last Tuesday that an independent commission had found Manchester City guilty of all the alleged breaches involving the competition’s financial rules over nine seasons, between 2009/2010 and 2017/2018.

The club was also found guilty of three of the four charges relating to its alleged failure to co-operate with the league’s investigation.

Against that background, Barcelona’s interest in Gvardiol has come back into focus. According to Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish club closely followed the defender last season as it considered options to strengthen its defence.

Gvardiol, 24, is regarded as a physically powerful player with strong defensive qualities. He can stop opposition attacks and help build play from the back with control and composure. His versatility is another major asset, as he is capable of operating effectively as a full-back despite being primarily a centre-back.

For Barcelona’s coaching staff, led by manager Hansi Flick, Gvardiol was considered an ideal addition to the defence for the current season. However, securing his signature was always difficult.

The Croatia international earns a high salary, while Manchester City were also seeking to improve his terms. In addition, the club viewed him as a key part of the squad and had no intention of allowing him to leave easily.

Barcelona made enquiries about Gvardiol’s position, but the player was not interested in departing. He was also presented with the possibility of extending his contract, making a move to Camp Nou even less likely.

As a result, Barcelona turned its attention to other defensive targets, including Italy international Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan.

Gvardiol ultimately committed his future to Manchester City at the end of July, signing a new contract that runs until 30 June 2031. The agreement also included an increase in his salary.

Any potential punishment for Manchester City could therefore alter the situation, although Gvardiol’s long-term contract currently ties him to the club for almost five more years.