One-time Leeds United target Josko Gvardiol is in advanced talks to join Manchester City, according to reports.
The centre-half has quickly become one of the most sought-after young players in world football. He has caught the eye for German side RB Leipzig since arriving in 2020 and was also one of the breakout stars for his country at the World Cup in Qatar last season where they finished third.
He now appears on the verge of moving to England as the latest recruit to Pep Guardiola's all-conquering City squad. But not that long ago he was heavily linked with a move to Elland Road.
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Speaking in 2021, the Croatian international revealed just how close he came to moving to the Whites. " Marcelo Bielsa personally, as well as the people from the club, called me on daily basis," he said.
"It was amazing. I couldn't believe such a big club and a great manager like him would consider me for their team. And it was always my dream to play in England too.
"It was during the summer. I came there, and they've presented me with a great video presentation of my skills, both defensive and attacking ones. And I was like 'wow, they've really nailed this. I'm moving to Leeds.' But then, I've had the same feeling after meeting at Leipzig. You suddenly become more realistic once you get the offer in front of you.
"I reminded myself I'm only 18 and I'm not really sure how would I fit at Leeds, especially with all that packed schedule. I'd probably got massacred there at this phase. I liked the way both Leeds and Leipzig approached me, but I've decided Germany is the better option for my long-term development."
It proved to be a sliding doors moment and just a few years later Gvardiol, still only 21, is now poised to become one of the world's most expensive defenders.
