Manchester City eye Josko Gvardiol as an alternative for Nathan Ake

Manchester City are keeping tabs on RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol, who has been identified as a replacement for Nathan Ake, reports Fabrizio Romano.

Citizens are enjoying a productive transfer window, having added Julian Alvarez, Erling Braut Haaland and Kalvin Phillips to the squad.

While Marc Cucurella remains a top target to reinforce the left-back position, the Premier League champions might be in the market again for a new central defender should Ake leave this summer.

The Dutch defender, who has fallen down the pecking order of Pep Guardiola, could be on his way out this summer, with Chelsea looking as the potential destination.

The Blues have agreed personal terms with their former star, and talks are continuing with Man City, who are holding out for a fee of around £40m.

Gvardiol’s name is highly desired by the Sky Blues following his impressive debut season in Bundesliga last term.

Die Roten Bullen paid €16m for Gvardiol’s transfer from Dinamo Zagreb, and it didn’t go in vain as he put in some impressive displays last season, eventually helping his side win the DFB Pokal title.

The 20-year-old Croatian defender’s stock has soared after just one season in Germany, with plenty of Europe’s top clubs interested in his services.

However, Man City will find it difficult to lure the young defender to Etihad Stadium as he has agreed to a contract extension until 2026 with Leipzig. Although a new release clause worth around €50m has been set, Leipzig are desperate to keep him next season.

Fellow Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur were also keen on Gvardiol before they shifted their attention towards Clement Lenglet, who has joined the Lilywhites from Barcelona on a loan deal.

Villarreal defender Pau Torres, who is similarly left-footed as Gvardiol, has also been linked with a move to Man City, but Romano claims the interest is not serious.