Manchester City are interested in signing Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic this summer, reports the Telegraph.
The Croatia international is in the last 18 months of his current contract with the Blues.
Man City were keen on Kovacic before he joined Chelsea from Real Madrid in 2018.
Their manager Pep Guardiola remains a big admirer of the 28-year-old.
The Premier League defending champions plan to make major changes to their midfield ahead of 2023-24.
Jude Bellingham remains Man City’s top target, but there is fierce competition for the services of the Borussia Dortmund star.
Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva have been linked with exits, while Kalvin Phillips has struggled since joining them from Leeds United.
Kovacic would be available for a cut-price if Chelsea are unable to extend his deal. The Blues have several players whose contracts expire in 2024.
The Croatian has been a key cog of Graham Potter’s midfield, but that could change soon.
N’golo Kante is set to return to action, while Enzo Fernandez has become a shoo-in in Chelsea’s starting XI.
Kovacic could start struggling for regular minutes, and a move to the Etihad Stadium could tempt him.
He has featured in 18 games across all competitions this term due to injuries.
Man City are regular challengers for major honours and adding Kovacic to their side will be a boost.
He brings much-needed experience and quality to the table. The chance to play under Guardiola could also appeal to him.
Chelsea will be wary not to strengthen one of their rivals.
However, they need to convince Kovacic to sign a new deal to have a chance of holding on to him.
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