Kovacic Eyed by Manchester City as Chelsea Agrees to Talks

EPL Index

·31 May 2023

Kovacic Eyed by Manchester City as Chelsea Agrees to Talks

Manchester City Eyes Kovacic: Chelsea Agree to Talks for Summer Transfer

Chelsea’s midfield stalwart, Mateo Kovacic, could be on the brink of a significant move. According to a report by David Ornstein in The Athletic, the English champions, Manchester City, have been given the go-ahead to enter into talks with Kovacic regarding a potential summer transfer.

Kovacic, a seasoned 29-year-old talent who is approaching the end of his contract at Stamford Bridge, has reportedly piqued the interest of Bayern Munich. However, Kovacic is said to favour the 2023 Premier League winners, tipping the scales in favour of a move to the Etihad.

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Kovacic’s Chelsea Chapter

Kovacic’s journey at Chelsea began in 2018 with a year-long loan before the move was made permanent with a substantial £45 million transaction for a five-year deal, due to expire next summer.

The Croatian has made his mark with 221 appearances for the Blues, where his contribution has led to impressive victories in the Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

Summer of Change: Manchester City and Chelsea’s Midfield Dilemma

Chelsea’s newly appointed manager, Mauricio Pochettino, seems content with Kovacic’s potential departure, indicative of his plans to streamline an oversize squad. In a corresponding move, Chelsea are reportedly eyeing Sporting Lisbon’s defensive midfielder Manuel Ugarte.

Adding to the situation, N’Golo Kante’s contract is up for renewal this summer, leaving questions over his future at Stamford Bridge.

Manchester City aren’t without their own midfield concerns, as experienced midfielder Ilkay Gundogan’s contract is set to expire at the end of June. Potential suitors for Gundogan are believed to include Arsenal and Barcelona.

It’s clear that this summer transfer window is shaping up to be a period of upheaval and change for both Chelsea and Manchester City, with Kovacic’s potential transfer playing a central role in the shifting landscape of English football.