RB Leipzig director reveals impact of Liverpool transfer in Man City’s pursuit of Josko Gvardiol

RB Leipzig’s director of sport Max Eberl has rejected suggestions that Manchester City are close to completing the signing of Josko Gvardiol.

There were reports this week, chiefly from Fabrizio Romano, that City had agreed a fee for the Croatian centre-back and a medical had been completed ahead of a transfer. However, ManchesterWorld understand that is not the case, and while Gvardiol remains City’s chief transfer target and a deal is expected to be agreed, no price has been arranged between the two clubs at this stage.

That has also been confirmed by Eberl, who admitted he was surprised by claims in the media this week that the defender is close to leaving the club. “There is no agreement with Man City,” he told Sky Germany. “Not even close.

“A lot has been written anyway and the latest information about Josko surprised us all. But as you can see: Josko is here [at the club’s pre-season training camp] – so it’s not true. He didn’t do a Man City medical – not that we know. And I don’t think he did it behind our backs because he’s just a professional.”

Eberl hinted Leipzig would be willing to let Gvardiol leave, but said the £60m Liverpool paid for Dominik Szoboszlai means the German club are not in a position where they have to sell this summer.

“The fact is Man City would like to have him [Gvardiol]. Currently we are still very far apart [in negotiations]. The transfer of Szoboszlai has secured us financially. We don't need the money. We would prefer Josko to stay.

“We are not a club that blocks anything,” he added. “We are transparent. But we have our ideas and want them to be implemented.”

Meanwhile manager Marco Rose also said reports that Gvardiol had underwent a medical were wide of the mark. “Josko is one of our players and as far as I know he will remain one of our players,” he explained in a separate interview with Sky Germany.

“I don't know anything about a medical check, nothing about a first and nothing about a second. I think if it was, I would know as head coach.”