Gvardiol in action for Manchester City against Chelsea in 2026

Real Madrid surprised as Joško Gvardiol offered amid Manchester City uncertainty

Adem Ozcan Last updated: May 18, 2026, 10:34 am
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Image: IMAGO / Action Plus

Joško Gvardiol’s future at Manchester City has reportedly become more intriguing after fresh claims in Spain suggested the defender has been offered to Real Madrid.

The Croatian international has been repeatedly linked with the Spanish giants in recent months, but the latest developments indicate movement behind the scenes that Real Madrid were not necessarily expecting.

According to AS, representatives connected to Gvardiol have presented the possibility of a move to the Santiago Bernabéu, a gesture that reportedly came as a surprise to the Spanish club.

Real Madrid have long admired the defender and previously monitored him before his move from RB Leipzig to Manchester City in 2023.

However, there is currently no indication that negotiations have advanced beyond early discussions.

Manchester City contract situation remains unclear

Earlier reports suggested Manchester City had prepared an improved contract proposal designed to strengthen Gvardiol’s long-term commitment and discourage interest from Spain.

However, the latest information suggests there has been no significant progress regarding any renewal.

That uncertainty naturally creates speculation.

Having followed Manchester City’s transfer activity closely in recent seasons, the club generally move quickly to secure players considered central to long-term planning.
Gvardiol has consistently looked like one of those players.

The defender returned recently from injury following surgery earlier this year and is currently focusing on rebuilding fitness ahead of the World Cup.

Joško Gvardiol (2025/26) Stat
Appearances 24
Minutes played 1,854
Goals 2
Assists 5
Contract expiry 2028

source: club competition data – 16 May 2026

Despite injury disruption, his overall contribution has remained strong.

Guardiola uncertainty may influence decisions

The report also suggests broader uncertainty around Pep Guardiola’s future could influence decisions among several Manchester City players.

Guardiola remains under contract until 2027, but continued speculation regarding his long-term plans has created questions around the wider direction of the project.

According to AS, multiple players inside the squad are reportedly waiting for greater clarity.

Gvardiol could potentially be among them.

From the closing weeks of Manchester City’s season, there has been increasing discussion surrounding future planning beyond Guardiola, even if no immediate change has been confirmed.

Real Madrid still assessing options

Real Madrid continue searching for defensive reinforcements and Gvardiol represents one of several names under consideration.

However, it remains important to separate interest from active pursuit.

The report itself states there is currently “no movement” toward completing any agreement.

That means Real Madrid may simply be gathering information rather than advancing negotiations.

Manchester City also retain a powerful position.

Gvardiol remains under contract until 2028 and still carries significant market value, reportedly estimated around €70 million.

For now, the biggest development may simply be that a conversation which previously appeared distant has suddenly become more active.

Key Points

  • Joško Gvardiol has reportedly been offered to Real Madrid
  • Manchester City have made no progress on a contract renewal
  • Real Madrid were reportedly surprised by the approach
  • Pep Guardiola’s future may influence player decisions
  • Gvardiol remains under contract until 2028

What’s next

Manchester City are expected to continue assessing long-term squad plans while uncertainty around Guardiola remains a major discussion point.

Real Madrid will also continue evaluating defensive targets before deciding whether interest around Gvardiol develops further.

Would Manchester City ever seriously consider losing Joško Gvardiol at this stage of his career?

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