Transfer Talk: City roll out the welcome Mat for Kovacic

Mateo Kovacic has emerged as a key target for Manchester City as Pep Guardiola begins to plot another trophy-laden campaign. 

After a season-long loan at Stamford Bridge, the Croatia international joined Chelsea permanently from Real Madrid in 2019 and has just one year remaining on his contract. 

His time in London has delivered plenty of success, with Champions League, Europa League, Super Cup and Club World Cup medals in his collection. 

Ironically, it was City who the Blues beat to conquer Europe in 2021 and Guardiola has clearly not forgotten about the midfielder's talents as his side preprare to face Inter Milan in tonight's final. 

A season to forget

Like so many Chelsea players, Kovacic endured a difficult 2022-23. 

He found rhythm tough to come by, starting just 17 Premier League games and making 10 appearances from the bench.

The midfielder, 29, scored one goal and recorded two assists in the league — although his game is more centred around control, registering 1,552 touches and completing 1,126 of his 1,309 attempted passes.

City exodus

Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gundogan are both reportedly looking to leave City this summer. 

Barcelona are said to be keen on Silva while Paris Saint-Germain are plotting a move for Gundogan. 

Speaking after the FA Cup final, Guardiola expressed his desire to hold on to his captain, who has played a major part in the club's pursuit of the Treble.  

He said: "[Gundogan] knows what I think, Txiki [Begiristain, football director] is working on it. 

"Hopefully he can be successful [in extending Gundogan's contract]." 

Should the German leave, an in-form and happy Kovacic has the ability to fill the void. 

Dual demands

While his assist numbers are not the most impressive, Kovacic can pick apart defences. 

Despite Chelsea's struggles, he created four big chances and made 48 successful passes into the penalty area. 

The London outfit's No8 is also capable of relieving pressure with his close control, completing 19 of his 29 attempted take-ons during the campaign. 

Just as importantly, Kovacic chips in defensively, registering 121 ball recoveries and 36 tackles.

Gabby's verdict

Former Aston Villa forward Gabby Agbonlahor believes Kovacic would be a solid addition for City. 

The talkSPORT pundit said: "I think [Kovacic is] good enough for most sides in world football. 

"The only thing he needs to work on is his finishing. He gets a lot of chances with Chelsea where you feel he has to put it away. 

"He's not quite composed enough in front of goal. You see City's midfielders putting it in the top corner every week. 

"But his midfield brain, his passing, his close control — it's top for a central midfielder. I think he'd fit into any midfield, to be honest. What a signing he would be."

Into Inter

City are one step from completing the Treble, with Inter their final obstacle in the Champions League.

Guardiola's side have been prolific in Europe this season, scoring 31 goals en route to the final in Istanbul. 

And Kovacic's experience on the biggest of stages will make him an invaluable addition as they chase more silverware next term.