Barcelona made approach for 24-year-old defender before Manchester City handed him new deal

Barcelona explored a move for Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol at the end of 2025, claims a report from Mundo Deportivo.

The outlet mentions that the Croatia international, now 24, was identified by Barça’s sporting department as a potential solution for the defence. 

His profile offered more than just centre-back cover, with his ability to operate at left-back also making him an attractive option for Hansi Flick.

Barcelona eventually decided that a deal was not realistic, with Gvardiol showing no desire to leave Manchester City and the Premier League club viewing him as an important part of their plans.

Gvardiol offered Barcelona two defensive options

Gvardiol’s versatility was a major part of his appeal to Barcelona.

Barcelona tried to sign Josko Gvardiol. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Naturally a centre-back, the Croatian combines physical strength with good technique and is comfortable bringing the ball out from the back. 

His ability to defend space and disrupt attacks also suited the profile Barça were looking for.

Flick could have used him in the centre of defence or at left-back, giving the squad greater flexibility across the back line. There were, though, significant obstacles to a transfer.

Gvardiol was already earning a substantial salary, and Manchester City were prepared to improve his terms. More importantly, City considered him an important player and had no intention of making negotiations easy.

The defender was a regular under Pep Guardiola and remained part of the plans after the managerial change to Enzo Maresca.

Barcelona turned to Bastoni after Gvardiol decision

Gvardiol ended up renewing his contract with Manchester City. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Barcelona did make an approach to understand Gvardiol’s situation, but the response was not encouraging.

The player was not interested in leaving Manchester City, particularly with a contract renewal offer already on the table. That effectively ended Barça’s pursuit and forced the club to consider alternatives.

One of those options was Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan.

The Italian centre-back emerged as another defensive target as Barcelona looked for a player capable of strengthening the back line.

Gvardiol ultimately committed his future to City. At the end of July, he signed a new contract running until 2031, alongside an improved salary, which put the final full-stop on Barcelona’s pursuit.