Fabrizio Romano has doubled down on his report that Josko Gvardiol is nearing a move to Manchester City - dealing a blow to Liverpool and Manchester United in the process.
Gvardiol currently plays his club football for RB Leipzig, and was linked with a move to City throughout last season.
Romano claimed on July 19 that the two clubs had agreed a fee for the Croatia centre-back, who can also play at left-back.
He added that the deal was 'on the verge of being signed' - but Leipzig sporting director Max Eberl later said that an agreement was not close over a move for the defender.
After his original tweet, Romano stated that there had been 'tension' between City and Leipzig during the final stage of negotiations. As a result, Gvardiol did not complete a medical with the reigning treble winners.However, he did stress that a verbal agreement had been reached, and a medical had been booked - but did not take place.
Furthermore, Romano stated the deal was still on - and now, in a response to another City fan, he gave a positive update.
Romano gives Gvardiol to Man City update
Taking to Twitter, Romano revealed that City have now added Rennes winger Jeremy Doku to their shortlist of potential replacements for Riyad Mahrez.
Mahrez left City to join Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli last week, with Guardiola keen to find a replacement for his position.
But the major talking point was when a City fan asked Romano if he was 'serious this time' - presumably in reference to the ongoing Gvardiol saga.
The journalist replied: "Don't worry with Gvardiol my friend."In one sentence, Romano appeared to boost City hopes that the 21-year-old will make a big-money move to the Etihad Stadium this summer - and not join Liverpool and Manchester United.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, both Liverpool and United are said to have submitted offers for the centre-back, with Chelsea also keen.
But the Blues have agreed a deal with Monaco to sign France international Axel Disasi, with the defender having a medical at Stamford Bridge.
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