Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool reportedly all hold an interest in Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic.
Since moving to Stamford Bridge in 2019, the Croatia international has established himself as a key player under a number of different managers, including current incumbent Graham Potter.
In total, Kovacic has made 211 appearances in all competitions, helping the Blues win the 2021 Champions League and 2022 Club World Cup.
However, with Enzo Fernandez arriving in January for a club-record fee, speculation has naturally emerged regarding Kovacic's long-term future.
With just over 15 months remaining on his contract, it had been expected that the Blues hierarchy would move to try to extend his terms.
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That has not proven to be case, according to widespread claims, and it now appears more likely than not that Kovacic will leave Chelsea in the summer.
With former boss Thomas Tuchel having taken over at Bayern Munich, it is alleged that the German will attempt to secure a reunion with the 28-year-old later in the year.
Nevertheless, according to 90min, the likes of City, United and Liverpool all intend to be active in the race to sign the former Real Madrid man.
From United's perspective, they allegedly view Kovacic as an alternative to Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong, whose price-tag may be deemed too high by club officials at a time when a takeover remains a possibility.
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City and Liverpool are also expected to sign new central midfielders ahead of 2023-24, with Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp both seemingly admirers of Kovacic.
Although Kovacic turns 29 in May, that is unlikely to hinder any bid with Chelsea not in a position to demand his true valuation.
If a decision is made not to try to renew Kovacic's contract, Chelsea would prefer to sell the player rather than risk losing him on a free transfer.
Chelsea's owners - a consortium headed by Todd Boehly - know that they must boost their position with FFP if they wish to make further additions ahead of the next campaign.
Darren Plant
