Manchester City suffer Declan Rice setback as striker completes Etihad Stadium switch

Tuesday 27 June brought about Manchester City’s first confirmed transfer of the 2023 summer window, as the Etihad Stadium welcomed Mateo Kovacic.

After a relatively swift negotiating process between all parties, the Croatia international completed a £30 million move from Chelsea to Manchester City, which was announced in the usual glossy style of the Premier League champions on Tuesday evening.

It wasn’t all positive news concerning Etihad Stadium transfer business however, as their opening bid for £100 million-rated Declan Rice was swiftly rejected by West Ham, and subsequently opening the door for Arsenal to make their move for the England star.

As we hit the two-week mark in the 2023 summer transfer window, here is your comprehensive round-up of business concerning the treble winners!

Arrivals

Mateo Kovačić has signed a four-year contract at Manchester City until the summer of 2027, taking the number 8 shirt. (Official)

West Ham have rejected Manchester City’s opening offer of £80 million plus £10 million in add-ons for Declan Rice. (David Ornstein, The Athletic)

Declan Rice is not going to turn Manchester City down if they end up outbidding Arsenal, despite wanting to stay in London. (Jacob Steinberg, The Guardian)

West Ham have received verbal offers from two clubs for more than the £90 million they turned down from Manchester City for Declan Rice. It is hoped the bids will be formally made in writing in the next 48 hours, with the midfielder’s future decided soon after. (Jason Burt, The Telegraph)

Arsenal have now made an improved bid worth up to £105 million for Declan Rice. The offer comprises an initial fee of £100 million and an extra £5 million in add-ons. (David Ornstein, The Athletic)

Manchester City are closing in on the signing of 16-year-old striker Luca Fletcher from Reading. A medical has been passed and paper work signed, with a fee agreed worth around £600,000 with future add-ons. (Fabrizio Romano)

Departures

Leicester City have firm interest in Manchester City goalkeeper Zack Steffen. City would consider a permanent deal this summer. (John Percy, Mike McGrath – The Telegraph)

Confirmed Deals

Mateo Kovacic: Chelsea to Manchester City

Enzo Maresca to Leicester City

Ilkay Gundogan to FC Barcelona