Real Madrid and Manchester City target Josko Gvardiol plays down transfer talk

RB Leipzig centre-back Josko Gvardiol has played down the chances of a transfer this summer.

Gvardiol is one of the world’s most in-demand youngsters. The 21-year-old has been a standout at RB Leipzig for the last two seasons, making 79 appearances in all competitions and helping them to their first ever major trophy.

At the recent World Cup in Qatar, the Croatian was one of the stars. He received widespread praise for his performances, and ended the tournament with a bronze medal.

As a result of his performances, Gvardiol has been linked with big-money moves to some of Europe’s top clubs. Chelsea have been strongly touted for a move in the past, while Real Madrid and Manchester City are also known to be interested.

Those clubs have taken a blow, however, as the player has denied any talk of a move away from Die Roten Bullen this summer. Speaking to Net HR, Gvardiol said: “The club is not interested in selling me this summer, so there is no point in talking about anything else.

“The most important thing is to end this season with Leipzig in the best possible way.”

With two months of the season left to play, RB Leipzig still have plenty to play for. They currently sit in fifth place in the Bundesliga, but a title charge isn’t yet off the cards. Although, it would take an almighty effort, as they would have to overturn an eight-point lead in nine games.

Perhaps their best chance of silverware would be in the DFB Pokal. Having won the competition last year, they are in with a shout of defending their title. They will face league leaders Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-finals next month.

Next up for Marco Rose’s men is a home clash with ninth-placed Mainz. A win could take them up to third.