Manchester City are ‘ready’ to ‘turn their full attention’ to signing Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic this summer, according to reports. 

Pep Guardiola has made a new midfielder one of his transfer priorities. Now, the Cityzens are eyeing the Blues star as an alternative to Jude Bellingham.

Despite Chelsea enduring a poor season, Kovacic is undoubtedly a top player on his day. So, it will be interesting to see if Man City do bring him in.

As previously reported by TEAMtalk, Borussia Dortmund sensation Jude Bellingham is now expected to join Real Madrid, despite strong interest from Man City and Liverpool.

As a result, Guardiola will have to look elsewhere for a new centre-mid. This is especially important given Ilkay Gundogan will most likely leave the Etihad this summer.

Kalvin Phillips and Rodri have been linked with departures, too, so Man City could be in need of more than one midfield addition.

However, bringing in the right player is essential if Guardiola wants to maintain his team’s position at the top of the Premier League.

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Man City eye shock Kovacic move

According to Football Insider, Man City have turned their ‘full attention’ to signing Kovacic. They add that Guardiola is a ‘big fan’ of the 29-year-old.

Kovacic’s contract at Stamford Bridge is set to expire in June 2024, and he is one of several Chelsea players tipped to leave this summer.

The Croatia international, who has won the Europa League and Champions League during his time with Chelsea, earns a reported wage of £100,000-a-week at Chelsea.

This season, he has scored two goals and made two assists in 35 appearances across all competitions. But, overall, Kovacic has made just 16 starts in the Premier League, with injuries and new signings limiting his game time.

Now, it’s believed the midfielder wants to leave Chelsea, so a switch to Man City could be on the cards.

Although, Bayern Munich have also registered an interest in Kovacic, as Thomas Tuchel eyes a reunion with his former player. So, the Cityzens face competition for his signature.

Football Insider’s report doesn’t mention how much Chelsea would be looking for to sanction a summer sale. Transfermarkt value Kovacic at approximately £40m, though, so a fee in that region is likely to be required.

READ MORE: Man City ‘confident’ of signing record-breaking Arsenal star after leaving Chelsea in dust – Arteta will be fuming

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