Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic is reportedly expected to complete a move to Manchester City this summer.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea and Manchester City are in the final stages of completing the deal for Mateo Kovacic. Apparently, Chelsea are holding out for a fee of around €30 million, and the player has already agreed personal terms with Manchester City.
The only way the move could collapse is if Manchester City decide to pursue Declan Rice instead. The 24-year-old West Ham United midfielder is on the market this summer, and Arsenal are currently the favourites to sign him.
Meanwhile, Kovacic has been a key player for Chelsea since joining the club from Real Madrid, helping them win multiple trophies. His departure will certainly weaken the Blues, and it will be interesting to see if they can replace him properly.
The Croatian international has proven himself to be a key player for club and country. He would certainly improve Manchester City as well. And recent reports have suggested that the Premier League champions are close to signing the Chelsea midfielder.
Chelsea and Manchester City are at the final stages of Mateo Kovacić deal. First approach was for €25m, Chelsea want at least €30m. Personal terms are 100% agreed 🔵🇭🇷 #MCFC
This could only change if City decide to enter into Declan Rice deal — where Arsenal remain favourites. pic.twitter.com/kxHRS3fmLY
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2023
The Premier League champions might part ways with Ilkay Gundogan after the German international’s contract expires. So they have decided to bring in the Chelsea star as his replacement. The Manchester City captain has been linked with a move to Barcelona as a free agent.
The 29-year-old midfielder is well-settled in the Premier League, and he should be able to fit into Pep Guardiola’s system seamlessly. He will be expected to make an immediate impact. The Croat has the technical ability and flair to adapt to Manchester City’s style of football.
Signing him for a fee of around €30 million could prove to be a bargain. The 29-year-old is at the peak of his career, and he could be a key player for Manchester City for the foreseeable future.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to sign a quality replacement as well and they have been linked with players like Moises Caicedo from Brighton & Hove Albion. The Blues will have their midfield weakened this summer, and N’Golo Kante won’t be at the club next season either. Reinforcing the engine room of the side should be the top priority for Mauricio Pochettino now.
