Jose Mourinho targets Josko Gvardiol for Real Madrid

Jose Mourinho, now Real Madrid manager, has listed Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol as a target. Real Madrid are looking to sign the Croatian this summer. Gvardiol joined Manchester City from RB Leipzig in 2023 for around €90 million on a five‑year deal. He has two years left on his contract and is also linked with Barcelona and Bayern Munich. Mourinho’s appointment follows Florentino Perez’s re‑election as Real Madrid president, with the Portuguese coach expected to be unveiled on Wednesday. He replaces former manager Alvaro Arbeloa, who was in charge for just under five months. Real Madrid have already secured centre‑back Ibrahima Konate and right‑back Denzel Dumfries, pending official announcements, as part of a broader defensive overhaul. Mourinho wants a versatile defender who can operate as a left‑back or centre‑back. Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori is also reported as a priority for Mourinho, sharing a previous stint with him at AS Roma. Both players fit the profile of adaptable defenders Mourinho plans to use in a back four or back three. Manchester City’s Hugo Viana expressed confidence that Gvardiol will extend his stay, despite speculation after Pep Guardiola’s departure. The club believes a contract extension is possible after the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Gvardiol has made 122 appearances for Manchester City, scoring 13 goals and providing 10 assists while winning six major trophies. A tibial fracture limited him to 18 Premier League games and five UEFA Champions League matches in the last campaign. If Gvardiol leaves, Manchester City expect a substantial fee, reflecting the €90 million paid three years ago. The defender said he is happy at the English side but will reassess after the World Cup.