Manchester City have just confirmed the signing of a five-year contract with the option of a further year with 21-year-old center-back Josko Gvardiol from RB Leipzig for a £77million fee.
The deal is expected to rise above £80m, which would eclipse the record amount paid for a defender when Manchester United signed Harry Maguire.
Gvardiol is one of the most highly-rated young players in football and was jubilant to be a part of the recent Treble winners.
“I have always dreamed of one day playing in England and to be doing so now with Manchester City – after the season they have just had – is a real honour for me,” Gvardiol said.
“Anyone who saw Manchester City play last season knows they are the best team in the world. To win the Treble says everything you need to know about the quality this team has.
“To be joining City is something very special for me and my family.
“To have the chance to work with Pep Guardiola, too, will be amazing. I know I am not yet the finished article and I am sure my game will progress under the best coach in football.
“To be linking up with Mateo Kovacic will also be special. He’s a top footballer and I hope we can both help City achieve another successful season in 2023/24 and then beyond.”
Gvardiol rose to fame with Croatia at the 2022 World Cup and Chelsea failed with a £70m bid to sign the 21-year-old in January.
During the tournament in Qatar, Croatia boss Zlatko Dalic described Gvardiol as the best centre-back in the world.
He said: “Gvardiol is the best centre back in the world. To play this maturely, it’s amazing. The way he plays, with what elegance he carries the ball.”