Croatian footballer, Mateo Kovacic is now close to leaving Chelsea as he has agreed personal terms with Premier League winners, Manchester City. The 29-year-old’s future has been uncertain since Chelsea started signing numerous players. The former Real Madrid midfielder’s contract with Chelsea will expire in 2024, but Chelsea has decided to sell him as part of a massive clear-out this summer to help balance the books. 
Kovacic at a match for Chelsea. Source: Getty Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich have also been linked with Kovacic, but the Cityzens are in pole position to sign him. With Chelsea ready to sell, Manchester City has been keeping a close eye on the Croatian international. Pep Guardiola’s men are looking for a potential replacement for İlkay Gundogan whose contract runs out in the summer. If the German international leaves, Kovacic will be an ideal replacement. Even if he does not, the arrival of the Croat will surely strengthen their squad. 
Kovacic lifting the Champions League trophy Chelsea won. Source: Getty Manchester City have already made a move, they have agreed personal terms with the 29-year-old. The player is keen on joining the Manchester-based club. And, now it is up to the clubs to find an agreement. With Chelsea open to the idea of him leaving, Manchester City fancy their chances. As a result, it will be interesting to see if they can land the Croatian international in their ranks. EXCL: Mateo Kovacić has now agreed personal terms with Manchester City after advanced talks already revealed last week 🚨🔵🇭🇷 #MCFC Kovacić wants the move, next step has to be between clubs as Chelsea and City will discuss fee after the UCL final. Chelsea, open to sell Kovacić. pic.twitter.com/PKdCHsEL9B — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 8, 2023 Kovacic has been a great servant for Chelsea ever since he joined them back in the summer of 2018. Initially, Chelsea loaned him in from Real Madrid for a year. But on the back of impressive performances, the Blues signed the Croat permanently. Kovacic has made more than 200 appearances for the Blues. He played a pivotal role in the 2018/19 Europa League triumph and the 20/2021 Champions League success. He is considered one of the best central midfielders in Europe, and Guardiola can make the most out of his prime years.
