Man City Prepare to Cash In on Mateo Kovačić as Midfield Rebuild Looms
Manchester City are ready to listen to offers for Mateo Kovačić, with the Croatian midfielder valued at €15m as Pep Guardiola reshapes his midfield.
Manchester City are reportedly open to selling Mateo Kovačić this summer, with the Premier League champions ready to make a ruthless call on the Croatian international's future. According to Sports Boom, City are willing to accept offers in the region of €15 million for the 29-year-old, who joined from Chelsea last summer for a similar fee.
Kovačić's limited impact at the Etihad
Kovačić arrived at Manchester City with high expectations, having been a key figure in Chelsea's midfield for several seasons. However, his first campaign under Pep Guardiola has been mixed. While he has shown flashes of his quality, injuries and stiff competition have limited his game time. The former Real Madrid man has made just 20 Premier League appearances, with only 12 starts, contributing one goal and two assists. His pass accuracy of 89% remains impressive, but Guardiola appears to be looking for more dynamism and directness in the middle of the park.
City's midfield revolution
Manchester City are planning a significant midfield overhaul this summer, with several high-profile targets identified. The club has been heavily linked with a move for West Ham's Edson Álvarez, while reports also suggest interest in Newcastle's Bruno Guimarães. With Kevin De Bruyne entering the final year of his contract and Bernardo Silva's future uncertain, City are keen to inject fresh legs and creativity. Kovačić, who turned 30 in May, is seen as surplus to requirements despite being a reliable squad player.
Potential suitors for the Croatian
Kovačić's availability at a cut-price €15m fee is likely to attract interest from across Europe. Several Serie A clubs, including Juventus and AC Milan, are reportedly monitoring his situation, while a return to the Premier League cannot be ruled out. West Ham United and Aston Villa have both been credited with interest, although the player's wage demands could prove a stumbling block. Kovačić currently earns around £150,000 per week at City, a figure that may deter some suitors.
What this means for City's rivals
The potential departure of Kovačić could strengthen a direct rival, given the number of Premier League sides interested. For City, it represents a chance to recoup a small fee and free up wages for a more dynamic addition. Guardiola is known for his ruthlessness when it comes to squad building, and this decision fits that pattern.
Verdict
While Kovačić remains a talented midfielder, his time at City seems to be coming to an end. A summer move appears likely, with the €15m price tag making him an attractive option for clubs looking for experience and technical quality. City fans will hope the funds are reinvested wisely as the club looks to dominate domestically and in Europe once again.