Manchester City agree personal terms with Chelsea star as first summer signing moves closer

Manchester City have reportedly taken a significant step towards signing Mateo Kovacic, after agreeing personal terms with the player.

The 29 year-old could become Manchester City’s first signing of the summer when the transfer window opens, as Pep Guardiola seeks to bolster his midfield options ahead of the new campaign.

City, who are at risk of losing both Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gundogan this summer, had identified the Chelsea player, believing that the Croatian could play in defensive midfield or in the more advanced no.8 role.

Kovacic is out of contract next year having spent five years at Stamford Bridge, after making an initial loan move from Real Madrid a permanent transfer in 2019.

The midfielder is widely reported to be one of a series of players who could leave the West London club this summer, with Mason Mount, N’Golo Kante and Kai Havertz all linked with potential exits.

Ahead of an official approach to sign the 29 year-old, Manchester City are claimed to have agreed personal terms with the player, a significant step towards completing a move to the Etihad Stadium.

TalkSport report that the Sky Blues are “confident” of signing Kovacic after agreeing personal terms with Croatia international.

Kovacic made 37 appearances for Chelsea across all competitions this season and featured in defeats against City in both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

Manchester City have also been linked with fellow Croatian Josko Gvardiol, who impressed at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar and has enjoyed a successful season in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig.

The 21 year-old is viewed as a potential replacement for Aymeric Laporte, who could leave the Etihad Stadium this summer due to a lack of minutes.

Kovacic isn’t however considered as a replacement for Gundogan, as TalkSport further report that Guardiola would “prefer” to have both players at the club next season.

Gundogan scored twice against Manchester United in the Emirates FA Cup Final on Saturday, though is yet to commit to a new contract, with his current deal expiring at the end of the season.

Bernardo Silva could also leave this summer, with PSG having reportedly reignited their interest in signing the Portuguese international.

Guardiola was unable to confirm whether Silva would be with the club next season during a press conference prior to the FA Cup Final.