Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic.
Kovacic, 29, has penned a four-year deal at the European champions in what is Pep Guardiola's first signing of the summer - just over two weeks since winning the treble. But, despite their success last season, City are in no mood to rest on their laurels and have acted quickly following the departure of Ilkay Gundogan.
The German, who scored in the FA Cup final against Manchester United earlier this month, has joined Barcelona on a free transfer after seven years at the Etihad Stadium. City have been linked with other midfielders, including Declan Rice, this summer, but Kovacic has become the first through the door.
City will pay Chelsea around £34million for Kovacic, who had one year remaining on his five-year contract at Stamford Bridge following his move from Real Madrid. Kovacic initially joined the Blues on a season-long loan but made the move permanent after impressing during the 2018/19 campaign.
During his time at Chelsea, Kovacic made 221 appearances while also winning the Champions League and Europa League. He struggled for form and fitness last term as the Blues slumped to their lowest league finish since 1993/94, but the Croatian will now embark on a new chapter in his career.
Kovacic will wear the No.8 shirt at City - the same number that was worn by Gundogan before his exit. Speaking after his move was confirmed on Tuesday, Kovacic told the club's website: "This is a brilliant move for me, and I cannot wait to get started with City.
"Anyone who has watched this team under Pep knows how good they are – for me, they are the best in the world. The trophies they have won are clear for all to see, but they are also the best footballing side out there.
"To be joining this squad really is a dream for any footballer. I still have plenty of learning and developing to do, and I know under Pep’s management I can become a better player, which is really exciting for me.
"My plan now is to rest for a few weeks before coming back to Manchester to prepare for the new season. I want to help this club stay at the top and win more trophies."
City Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: "Mateo is an excellent footballer. "He can play as a 6 or an 8, has plenty of experience at top level clubs and he understands the Premier League. It was a very simple decision to bring him to City because he has the tactical and technical qualities we are looking for in a midfielder.
"He is someone we have monitored for a very long time and always we were impressed whenever we watched him. I am delighted he is here. This is a great signing for this club, and I am very excited to watch what he can do with Pep and the rest of our backroom team."
