Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol has emerged as a top target in the summer 2023 transfer window. After an impressive performance at the recent World Cup in Qatar, where he helped his national team secure third place, Gvardiol has caught the attention of teams across Europe. Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, have been in contact with the player and are eyeing him as their next signing. Currently playing for RB Leipzig, Gvardiol has been delivering outstanding results for the German club since 2021. A verbal agreement between the player and Manchester City has been confirmed, and both clubs are working towards finalizing the deal for a reported price of €90 million.
Another player making waves in the transfer market is Romelu Lukaku. The experienced Belgian forward has built an impressive career, representing top clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester United, and Inter Milan. However, Lukaku’s form has dipped recently, prompting interest from his former club Chelsea. Despite Chelsea’s pursuit, Lukaku has expressed his preference for a move to Juventus. A verbal agreement between the player and the Italian club has been reached, with Chelsea being offered a deal of €40 million plus forward Dusan Vlahovic. The final decision now lies with Chelsea manager Pochettino, who is rumored to be in discussions with Vlahovic.
Goncalo Ramos, the Benfica striker, has also attracted attention in the transfer window. His standout performance, including an astonishing hat-trick against Switzerland in the World Cup Round of 16, has put him in the spotlight. Paris Saint Germain has approached Ramos and finalized a verbal deal worth €80 million, with additional bonuses. The ball is now in Benfica’s court as they have to make a decision within the next 24 to 48 hours. If the Portuguese club agrees to the deal, Ramos will sign a contract with the French champions until 2028.
Ousmane Dembele, the French right-winger, is set to bid farewell to FC Barcelona after six years with the Spanish giants. Paris Saint Germain has triggered Dembele’s buy clause, offering €50 million for his services. However, it’s worth noting that the French club has not activated the La Liga exit clause. Dembele is expected to be unveiled as a Paris Saint Germain player on Sunday, as he is set to sign a deal until June 2028.
Meanwhile, Joao Cancelo, the Portuguese right-back, has become a priority for FC Barcelona’s manager, Xavi, since the beginning of 2023. The Catalan club has been lacking a powerful defender since the retirement of Dani Alves in the summer of 2022. Cancelo’s inclusion would add a world-class player to their ranks. The defender recently reached a verbal agreement with Xavi and has initiated a meeting with Manchester City to facilitate his move to FC Barcelona.
As the summer transfer window progresses, football fans eagerly await the official announcements of these high-profile moves. The forthcoming season promises excitement and intense competition as these talented players aim to make their mark at their new clubs.
