Manchester City open ‘concrete talks’ to sign Mateo Kovačić from Chelsea

Mateo Kovacic has one more year remaining on his current contract at Stamford Bridge, but with the club hoping to reduce the numbers in their first-team squad, interest from the Premier League champions could be seen as helpful to incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino. Kovacic has won four trophies in his time at Chelsea, including the Champions League.

Manchester City are in talks with Mateo Kovacic over a summer move from Chelsea, according to reports.

The Croatian midfielder is in the final year of his contract at Stamford Bridge and Bayern Munich are also believed to be interested in his services.

Kovacic first arrived at Chelsea on a year-long loan from Real Madrid before joining permanently on a five-year deal in 2019.

He has enjoyed success in west London, picking up winners’ medals in the Champions League, Europa League, Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup.

With City captain Ilkay Gundogan’s future still unknown - with a new contract yet to be signed - and Jude Bellingham seemingly preferring the lure of Real Madrid, Kovacic is thought to be prominent on the radar of Pep Guardiola.

City are just two wins away from winning the treble as they look to add the FA Cup and Champions League to their Premier League title.

EXCL: Manchester City have opened concrete talks to sign Mateo Kovacic in the summer. Positive discussions took place with player’s camp in the last few days over personal terms 🚨🔵 #MCFC

Chelsea, open to selling Kovacic as part of midfield revolution. Talks will continue soon. pic.twitter.com/a9IL6NSdug

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 31, 2023

Incoming Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino will likely want to reduce a bloated 33-man squad as one of his first priorities.

It’s thought at least ten players could be moved on, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic among those rumoured to have played their last games for the club.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek could be the first out of the door, with AC Milan said to be in talks with the midfielder.