The Gunners have received a massive setback in the pursuit of Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic who is gaining interest from plenty of top suitors across the European continent. According to the latest reports Serie A side AC Milan has joined the hunt to sign the midfield gem along with Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea, which means Arsenal’s chances of signing him are all but over.
Real Madrid midfielder Kovacic has publicly stated that he wants a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu this summer window. The Croatian star just returned back to club training after aiding his nation to the finals of the FIFA World Cup in Russia. Kovacic held a meeting with new Real Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui after returning to Madrid but was still adamant that he wanted to leave the Spanish giants in this summer window in order to play regular football elsewhere.
It’s difficult for Kovacic to cement his starting berth at the Los Blancos when Real Madrid have players like Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, Isco, Marco Asensio, Casemiro and Lucas Vazquez to pick from in midfield. Although Kovacic is a really good footballer and Madrid are well aware that the European champions don’t want to lose him in this transfer market.
Plenty of top suitors across the European continent, including the club’s London based rivals Chelsea are eyeing a move for Kovacic this summer as they are still monitoring the versatile midfielder’s situation at the Santiago Bernabeu.
New Arsenal boss Unai Emery is a big fan of Kovacic and wanted to lure him to the Emirates Stadium this summer in order to revamp his squad. The Spanish manager took over from legendary Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger and has made several changes already including allowing Jack Wilshere to leave the club.
Despite signing Uruguayan midfielder Lucas Torreira, who impressed for his nation at the FIFA World Cup in Russia, Emery wants another top quality midfielder before the transfer window ends in England. Known for his passing, technical ability and composure on the ball, Kovacic is one of the best midfielders in the world at the moment eager to show everyone his talents.
Chelsea were at one point of time said to be out of the race for Kovacic because they already signed Jorginho, so the North London side could make a bid for the 24-year-old star. Kovacic also hinted that he did not want to join Manchester United because he does not prefer Jose Mourinho’s style of play.
Despite that, the Blues have revived their interest in the player and Spurs were linked with him too. It seems that London could be his new home in the days to come.
However, there is heavy interest coming in from Serie A side AC Milan as the Italian club is keen on bringing back the glory days from the past. Even Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is a massive admirer of Kovacic and Arsenal will have to fend off competition from these two clubs for his signature.
Real Madrid is not ready to part with Kovacic just yet, but is prepared to agree on a deal if any club is ready to pay £60m or more for his services. Los Blancos have enough fire power amongst their ranks to let one of the midfield stars leave and with the player not being too happy with the lack of game-time at the club, it is best to allow him to move on with his career.
Will Arsenal pay this kind of money to sign the Croatian international? Guess Not!!
