Barcelona view Josko Gvardiol as their primary defensive target ahead of the January transfer window, according to Catalan media. The 24-year-old Manchester City left-back signed a new contract through 2031 in July, ending a period of interest from both Barcelona and Real Madrid. The club also considers Alessandro Bastoni at Inter Milan, Lisandro Martinez at Manchester United, and Natan at Real Betis as alternatives.
Gvardiol has become a regular under manager Enzo Maresca this season, appearing in 12 matches across all competitions. He featured in Champions League matches including a defeat to Paris Saint-Germain and a 5-1 victory over AEK Athens. The Croatian defender recovered from a January injury in time to play four matches for his country at the FIFA World Cup.
Barcelona's pursuit faces significant obstacles. Manchester City's five-year extension makes a transfer unlikely unless severe sanctions result from the independent commission's verdict on financial rule breaches. The commission found City guilty on 114 of 115 charges in September, with City appealing the decision on October 1. Even if sanctions occur, City may resist selling a key player in Maresca's squad.
