Director of football Hugo Viana has made the Gvardiol renewal one of his most pressing priorities following the departure of Pep Guardiola, tabling a long-term offer that would represent a substantial pay rise for the 24-year-old. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, negotiations are progressing positively.
Gvardiol joined Manchester City from RB Leipzig for €90 million in the summer of 2023 and has established himself as one of the most versatile defenders in the Premier League, capable of playing as a left-back and at centre-back. He made 122 appearances for the club across all competitions, contributing 13 goals and 10 assists.
The 2025-26 season brought an extended absence. Gvardiol suffered a tibial fracture in January and missed the majority of the second half of the campaign. In his absence, City turned to Nico O'Reilly at left-back, and the young midfielder adapted sufficiently to ensure the team did not suffer.
His current contract runs until June 2028. City's standing demand, should any club attempt to sign him, is understood to be at least the €90 million they paid for him. That figure has discouraged Real Madrid's initial enquiries, according to multiple reports.
The timing of the contract talks is complicated by Guardiola's exit. Reports in Croatia, via Sportske Novosti, claimed Gvardiol was attracted by the prospect of following the departing manager elsewhere. City's position, as relayed by the Manchester Evening News, is that those reports overstate his desire to leave — and that a deal remains achievable.
Incoming manager Enzo Maresca is expected to hold direct talks with Gvardiol once the World Cup concludes. City view the Croatian as a cornerstone of the defence Maresca will build, and want clarity on his future before pre-season begins in July.
Gvardiol himself has broken his silence cautiously, saying he is happy at the Etihad Stadium but will assess his options after the tournament. That statement is not a commitment — but it is not a farewell either.