MANCHESTER CITY have confirmed the signing of Josko Gvardiol for £78million from RB Leipzig.

The Croatian centre-back, 21, who has penned a five-year deal, is one of the highest-rated young defenders in Europe following a sensational World Cup in Qatar.

Josko Gvardiol has become Manchester City’s second signing of the summer

He has agreed a five-year deal with Man City

Gvardiol has proven himself a world class defender for both RB Leipzig and Croatia

And that is reflected in his price tag as he becomes the second most expensive defender of ALL TIME behind Harry Maguire – who joined Manchester United for £80m in 2019.

He is Man City’s second signing of the summer after fellow Croatian Mateo Kovacic arrived from Chelsea for £30m.

And Gvardiol, who will wear the No24, could make his debut as soon as SUNDAY when Guardiola’s side face Arsenal in the Community Shield.

After arriving at the Etihad, he said: “I have always dreamed of one day playing in England and to be doing so now with Manchester City – after the season they have just had – is a real honour for me.

“Anyone who saw Manchester City play last season knows they are the best team in the world. To win the Treble says everything you need to know about the quality this team has.

“To be joining City is something very special for me and my family. To have the chance to work with Pep Guardiola, too, will be amazing for me.

“I know I am not yet the finished article and I am sure my game will progress under the best coach in football.

“To be linking up with Mateo Kovacic will also be special. He’s a top footballer and I hope we can both help City achieve another successful season in 2023/24 and then beyond.”

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Gvardiol becomes the second most expensive defender of all time

Pep Guardiola has now made two signings in the summer transfer window

With Leipzig, Gvardiol made 88 appearances and won back-to-back German Cups.

He was also included in the 2022–2023 Bundesliga Team of the Season.

Last summer, Chelsea was extensively connected with a deal for the center-back, but they ultimately decided to sign Wesley Fofana and Kalidou Koulibaly.

And now, as they get ready for Aymeric Laporte to leave the Etihad, Man City has stepped in.