Man City 'submit bid' for World Cup star Josko Gvardiol and other transfer rumours

Manchester City have reportedly submitted a bid for Croatia and RB Leipzig star Josko Gvardiol.

The 20-year-old is highly thought of in the footballing world having already enjoyed a standout season in the Bundesliga. Gvardiol's form for his club earned him a place at the World Cup with Croatia where he has continued to blossom.

His performances have seen some of Europe's biggest clubs linked with a move for him and, according to Foot Mercato, RB Leipzig are expecting a bidding war to take place this January. It is understood that the Blues have submitted the biggest offer - in excess of £85million - for the centre-back, whose current contract expires in 2027.

Manchester United and Chelsea, meanwhile, are believed to have submitted offers of £82m and £77m respectively. Gvardiol moved to RB Leipzig from Dinamo Zagreb in 2021 for a fee in the region of £19m.

Elsewhere, Ilkay Gundogan's future at the Etihad Stadium continues to be discussed. According to reports from Defensa Central, Real Madrid are believed to have rejected the opportunity to sign the German midfielder on a free transfer.

The 32-year-old is currently in the last year of his contract at City. It is claimed that Gundogan was offered to Los Blancos as they look to strengthen their midfield following the departure of Casemiro.

However, it is reported that Real have turned the opportunity down and are exploring other options. One such option is understood to be Jude Bellingham, who has also been linked with a move to City.