Real Madrid have hit the ground running this summer, securing four signings before the midpoint of June as Jose Mourinho shapes his squad.
The Spanish giants have made strengthening their defence a clear priority, with several Premier League players identified as targets for the new manager.
Mourinho personally identified Josko Gvardiol as one of his preferred defensive additions, alongside Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori, according to reports from Spain.
Real Madrid have already bolstered their backline with the arrivals of Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konate, and Denzel Dumfries ahead of the new campaign.
Despite that activity, Mourinho is pushing for at least one more centre-back addition to complete the defensive overhaul he has in mind.
However, a move for Gvardiol now appears unlikely after the Croatian agreed terms on a new five-year contract with Manchester City.
Spanish outlet Sport report that Real Madrid are set to back away from their pursuit, with Gvardiol’s new deal effectively shutting the door on a move to the Spanish capital.
In recent weeks, multiple reports had suggested Gvardiol was open to a move to Madrid, though agent-driven interest during contract negotiations is never uncommon in modern football.
Manchester City are not entirely free of Real Madrid’s attention though, as Ruben Dias has emerged as another name on Mourinho’s defensive shortlist.
The Portuguese centre-back is 28 years old and has three years remaining on his current deal at the Etihad Stadium, which could make City more open to a sale.
Enzo Maresca’s side may view this as a final opportunity to command a significant transfer fee for Dias if he does not feature heavily in their long-term defensive plans.
If Dias himself is open to a move to the Spanish capital and City are willing to negotiate, a deal could potentially suit every party involved.
Real Madrid remain busy in the transfer market as Mourinho looks to stamp his authority on the squad before the new season gets underway.
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