Manchester City in ‘privileged position’ to rival Real Madrid for signature of Girona star

Manchester City hold a unique position to rival Real Madrid for the signing of Girona left-back Miguel Gutierrez, according to reports from Spain.

The 22-year-old is part of the Girona side that currently top La Liga, and are rivalling Real Madrid for the Spanish top-flight title, after the Catalan club moved nine points clear of third placed Barcelona on Monday.

Girona, who are one of 13 clubs owned by Manchester City’s parent company the City Football Group, have a number of talented young players within their squad, with several drawing transfer interest from across Europe.

Miguel Gutierrez is one of the highly-rated young talents, with the left-back currently enjoying his second season at the Estadi Montilivi after moving to Girona from Real Madrid.

The Spaniard is contracted at Girona until 2027 and has made 18 appearances for the La Liga leaders so far this season.

Gutierrez could return to Real Madrid in the future however, with Carlo Ancelotti’s side inserting a buy-back clause within the full-back’s contract upon his switch to Girona.

Sport Witness relay a report by outlet Sport, who claim that the 22-year-olds €35 million release clause would be halved to €17.5 million for Real Madrid.

Manchester City would also reportedly be able to complete a deal for €17.5 million due to their position within the City Football Group, posing a potential ‘threat’ to Real Madrid, should Pep Guardiola want to sign the left-back.

Sergio Gomez, who is currently the Sky Blues’ only recognised left-back, has been linked with a potential move to Galatasaray, opening up the possibility of Manchester City moving for Gutierrez.

The Girona defender could be considered as an ‘option’ by Manchester City ahead of the upcoming January transfer window and summer market in 2024, however to sign the player for a cut price, Real Madrid would have to grant permission.