Barcelona monitored the situation of Joško Gvardiol, Manchester City's defender, throughout last season, in anticipation of a potential signing to strengthen the team's defense.
This comes amid the uncertainty surrounding Manchester City, as they await a possible sanction due to their financial cases, which could include relegation or point deductions, potentially prompting some of their stars to reconsider their future.
Mundo Deportivo revealed that Gvardiol, aged 24, was one of the names that caught Barcelona's attention, given his defensive capabilities and ability to build play from the back.
The report indicated that Barcelona's management and Hansi Flick considered Gvardiol a suitable option to reinforce the backline, especially since he would have provided a solution in two different positions.
However, signing him was not easy, given the player's high salary, Manchester City's desire to improve his contract, and the club's insistence on retaining his services as one of the team's key elements.
Gvardiol was a key player under Pep Guardiola, and he continued to have an important role with the team after the Spanish coach's departure.
Barcelona probed Gvardiol's stance but realized that the player did not wish to change clubs, especially with an offer to renew his contract with Manchester City.
Consequently, Barcelona turned to other targets to strengthen their defense.
The Croatian defender is characterized by strength and the ability to stop opponents' attacks, along with high quality in handling the ball and playing it out from the back.
His ability to play in multiple positions also gives him an added advantage, as he excels both as a center-back and as a full-back without issues.
At the end of last July, Gvardiol settled his future by renewing his contract with Manchester City until June 30, 2031, with an improved salary.
Nevertheless, the future of several Manchester City players remains uncertain pending the outcome of the sanctions against the club.
