Chelsea have launched an enquiry regarding the services of Real Madrid star Mateo Kovacic, who wishes to leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer.
According to Daily Mail, Chelsea are keen to sign Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic. The Croatian international has been identified as an alternative, should the Blues fail to sign Welsh superstar Aaron Ramsey as we enter the final phase of the summer transfer window in England.
The Blues are reportedly plotting a £30 million deal to land Ramsey, who has less than 12 months remaining on his current Arsenal contract. However, he is reportedly in talks with the Gunners over a new deal, which could potentially jeopardize Chelsea’s chances of signing the Welshman. As a result, they have launched an enquiry into Kovacic’s availability.
Much has been documented regarding the future of the Croatian midfielder, who arrived at the Bernabeu with a burgeoning reputation back in 2015. But, since his move to the Spanish capital, the 24-year-old failed to make an impact in the Real Madrid first-team. In fact, 2016-17 was the only season he has managed to secure over 1500 minutes of league action.
Last season, Kovacic made only 21 appearances for the European champions, totalling just below 1000 minutes of league action. And the lack of first opportunities has understandably frustrated the Croat, who is, by no means, an ordinary talent. Thus, a move away from Real Madrid will certainly be the most logical choice for the 24-year-old as he looks to resurrect his career.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are coming on the back of a miserable season under Antonio Conte, which, eventually led to his sacking last month. And the Blues have brought in Maurizio Sarri as their new manager, who has been keen on engineering a squad overhaul in order to lead the West Londoners back to the top of English football.
Midfield, in particular, has been identified as a significant weakness by the former Napoli mastermind. Apart from French superstar N’Golo Kante and new signing Jorginho, the Chelsea lack a reliable option in the centre of the pitch with both Tiemoue Bakayoko and Danny Drinkwater being linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge. Thus, the Real Madrid outcast is indeed a viable option for the Blues.
The Croatian international is blessed with immense technical prowess, which is ideal in order to thrive under Sarri’s tactical philosophy. Furthermore, the Real Madrid man is also known for his mobility, which, once again, chimes in perfectly with the Chelsea manager’s high-intensity build-up and pressing in the middle third of the pitch.
That being said, Real Madrid have remained reluctant to let go of their prized asset, despite his initial wish to leave the club. Hence, it remains to be seen if Chelsea will be able to secure the services of this highly talented midfielder, who is more than capable of making a difference in the English top flight.
