According to sources close to the deal, Real Madrid will not be signing Josko Gvardiol from Manchester City after all. The defender had been heavily linked throughout the window, but the deal is now dead in the water. Reasons for the collapse remain unclear, though it marks a blow to Real Madrid's plans to bolster their squad. This move is off for now, though speculation continues around Josko Gvardiol, who has also been linked with Bayern Munich and Barcelona. With only 21 goals conceded in 25 (0.84 per game), Real Madrid have been one of the stronger defences in the LaLiga this season.. Josko Gvardiol would be asked to keep that standard and provide dependable cover when needed. Alongside this, Manchester City are said to be exploring Jarrad Branthwaite, Marc Cucurella and Felix Nmecha with Real Madrid likewise connected to Felix Nmecha, Joao Neves and Matheus Luiz Nunes. More on this story as it develops. Need more Real Madrid transfer rumours? Follow @PlayerSwitchCom on Twitter for up-to-the-minute news from Real Madrid.