Mateo Kovacic has hinted that all roads point towards a Stamford Bridge exit this summer.
The Chelsea midfielder is reportedly close to joining Manchester City despite an underwhelming campaign at Stamford Bridge. Just one year left on his contract - combined with an overinflated playing squad - makes Todd Boehly and Co willing to cash in.
Kovacic had little impact on Chelsea’s season, scoring just one league goal in an unsettled side that finished mid-table. The 29-year-old could make way to allow space for signings such as Romeo Lavia and Moses Caicedo.
While links to Man City came as a surprise, Pep Guardiola wants an experienced midfielder as Ilkay Gundogan is widely expected to leave the Etihad when his contract expires this month. Given his pedigree at Chelsea and Real Madrid - as well as his discounted price - Kovacic fits the bill.
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Speaking while on international duty, the Croat has given his biggest hint yet that he will be leaving West London. Kovacic went as far as to wish City good luck in their upcoming Champions League final.
“Everything is going towards the fact that, after five good years (at Chelsea), I will change,” Kovacic told Nacional. “But in football, anything can happen. Right now, I’m focused on Croatia and the Nations League.
" Manchester City is a top team and deserves to be in the Champions League final. That’s what I have to say. The summer is long; we’ll see what happens. Chelsea is phenomenal for me. I love the city and the fans; they love me. I have wonderful memories of Chelsea. We’ll see what happens.”
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