According to reports, Manchester City is eager to finalize the signing of Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic by the end of June.
The Croatian international, who is currently away representing his country in the UEFA Nations League finals, seems unlikely to extend his contract with Chelsea beyond the summer of 2024.
Kovacic played a crucial role for both Graham Potter and Frank Lampard last season, although he faced challenges due to various minor injuries. He has confirmed his intention to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
Man City and Kovacic have reportedly already agreed on personal terms, and the treble winners are now focused on negotiating a fee with Chelsea. The Evening Standard suggests that Man City is optimistic about finalizing the deal within the next couple of weeks and is expected to pay £35 million to secure the services of the former Real Madrid player.
Pep Guardiola is keen to have Kovacic on board in time for the start of pre-season training, while Chelsea also has the incentive to complete the sale as they look to balance their books.
Having made 221 appearances for Chelsea since joining on an initial season-long loan from Real Madrid in 2018, Kovacic has recorded six goals and 15 assists. The Blues made his move permanent for €45 million (£38.5 million) the following summer, and he has since won multiple titles, including the Champions League, Europa League, Club World Cup, and UEFA Super Cup during his time in the English capital.
Kovacic recently played 85 minutes in Croatia’s 4-2 Nations League semi-final victory over the Netherlands, and he is expected to start in Sunday’s final against Spain, which would mark his 95th senior cap.
The impending move to Man City comes when the Premier League champions risk losing Ilkay Gundogan on a free transfer at the end of the season. The team’s captain is two weeks away from the expiration of his contract and was listed as released by Man City, although negotiations for a new deal are reportedly ongoing.
However, Barcelona and Arsenal are preparing contract offers for Gundogan, who reportedly remains unsatisfied with Man City’s proposed one-year renewal.
In addition to Kovacic’s potential arrival, there are rumors surrounding Bernardo Silva’s departure, with Paris Saint-Germain showing interest. Man City hopes to deter the French champions with a hefty asking price of £75 million.
Kovacic is among several Chelsea midfielders who may seek new opportunities this summer. N’Golo Kante is believed to be on the verge of joining Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, while Manchester United is preparing a fresh bid for Mason Mount after their initial offer was rejected. Furthermore, Ruben Loftus-Cheek has reportedly given the green light to move to AC Milan.
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