Bayern 'making inquiries' about Man City star Gvardiol

Manchester City v West Ham United - Premier League

Bayern Munich are reportedly stepping up their interest in Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol as they look to reshape their defensive line for the upcoming season. The Croatian international has emerged as a key target for the Bundesliga giants, who are said to be exploring the possibility of a move for the versatile former RB Leipzig man.

Matthaus hints at Bayern interest

According to German football legend Lothar Matthaus, Bayern are very much in the hunt for Gvardiol. The 65-year-old pundit suggested that the Bavarian giants are already laying the groundwork for a potential transfer, aiming to bring the defender back to the Bundesliga following his successful stint with RB Leipzig.

"I have a player in mind and I have heard that inquiries are already being made," Matthaus said on Sky. "A former Bundesliga player from Leipzig, currently playing for Manchester City, left-back, can also play in the centre. His name is Gvardiol."

These comments align with reports from TEAMtalk suggesting that Bayern have made initial contact with the 24-year-old's representatives to determine his willingness to move.

Nottingham Forest v Manchester City - Premier League

Status at the Etihad Stadium

Gvardiol has established himself as a regular starter under Pep Guardiola since his €90 million move to England in 2023. However, his current campaign has been hampered by a fractured tibia suffered in January, limiting him to just 17 Premier League appearances so far this season. Despite this setback, his reputation as one of Europe's premier defenders remains intact.

City are reportedly keen to secure Gvardiol's long-term future. The club's hierarchy is said to be working on a contract extension for the defender, whose current deal runs until 2028. Many within the Etihad believe the Croatian remains happy in Manchester, but the lure of a leading role at the Allianz Arena could prove tempting.

Bayern's defensive uncertainty

The interest in Gvardiol comes at a time of transition for the Bayern backline. While Jonathan Tah and Dayot Upamecano have been the preferred central partnership under Vincent Kompany, the futures of several other defenders remain unclear. Alphonso Davies and Hiroki Ito have both struggled with injury problems, with the Canada star's fitness concerns even casting doubt over his World Cup participation.

Kim Min-jae has also been linked with a potential exit after falling down the pecking grade at times. With speculation surrounding the possible sales of Davies and Ito this summer, Gvardiol’s ability to operate both as a left-back and a central defender makes him an incredibly attractive option for the German giants.

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Real Madrid join race amid squad overhaul

In addition to Bayern, Real Madrid has emerged as a potential suitor. Following a trophyless campaign, Los Blancos are reportedly bracing for a major squad overhaul, which could directly impact their central defence. Key questions remain unanswered, particularly regarding the future of Antonio Rüdiger, whose contract is set to expire this summer.