Chelsea would reportedly be prepared to let Mateo Kovacic leave during this summer's transfer window if they received an offer in the region of £40m, with Manchester City said to be interested in his services.
The 29-year-old has been with the Blues on a permanent basis since July 2019, arriving at Stamford Bridge from Real Madrid following a successful loan spell in 2018-19.
Kovacic has been a regular during his time in the English capital, featuring on 219 occasions in all competitions, contributing six goals and 15 assists in the process.
The Croatia international has made 35 appearances during a difficult 2022-23 campaign for Chelsea, meanwhile, but there is currently speculation surrounding his future.
A recent report claimed that Kovacic is keen to leave Stamford Bridge this summer, as he wants to continue playing in the Champions League next season.
© Reuters
Man City are said to be showing an interest in the Croatian, with the Citizens believed to be keen to sign two new central midfielders during this summer's transfer window.
Ilkay Gundogan only has a contract with the English champions until the end of June, while Kalvin Phillips is being linked with an exit due to his struggles this season.
According to Football Insider, Chelsea would be willing to let Kovacic leave this summer for a fee in the region of £40m, as his contract with the Blues is due to expire next June.
The report claims that Man City head coach Pep Guardiola is a 'big fan' of Kovacic, viewing the Croatian as the ideal player to boost his midfield options for the 2023-24 campaign.
© Reuters
Kovacic started his professional career with Dinamo Zagreb before moving to Inter Milan in 2013, spending two years with the Italian giants ahead of a switch to Real Madrid.
The midfielder made 109 appearances during his time at Bernabeu, winning La Liga and three Champions League crowns during a hugely successful spell.
Kovacic has also claimed silverware since arriving at Chelsea, winning the Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup with the Blues.
The London giants will not be in the Champions League next season, though, with a disastrous 2022-23 Premier League campaign leaving them down in 11th position in the Premier League table.
Matt Law
