Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic in the summer transfer window.
The 28-year-old Croatian is known for his control, composure, and ability to carry the ball forward and play out of the press.
United sees him as an ideal acquisition to improve their midfield, while Liverpool are looking to add more energy, craft, and composure to their midfield.
Mateo Kovacic – What the stats says
Kovacic’s ability to drive the ball forward and burst past defenders in transition in the middle of the park provides a lethal edge in counter-attacks.
Compared to other midfielders, Kovacic boasts excellent progressive statistics per 90 minutes: 1.86 dribbles completed, 8.31 progressive carries, 3.77 carries into the final third, 7.03 progressive passes, and 7.99 passes into the final third, all of which rank above the 95th percentile.
Kovacic’s transfer situation
Chelsea may let him go to address the balance of their squad and offload some players.
Meanwhile, newly appointed Bayern Munich coach Thomas Tuchel has openly declared his wish to acquire Kovacic.
While Frenkie de Jong is United’s top target, but they are also interested in Kovacic, who completely fits their profile.
Meanwhile, Bernardo Silva has expressed his wish to leave Manchester City, while Ilkay Gundogan may also leave as a free agent.
Both Man City and Liverpool are keen on recruiting Jude Bellingham to the Premier League, but City and Liverpool are also exploring other midfield options, with potential departures from their current squad.
Liverpool may have to secure a top-four finish to sign Kovacic, who may prefer a Champions League club.
There have been rumors of Liverpool’s interest in various other midfielders, therefore, it’s uncertain if they can successfully persuade Kovacic to sign with them.
At the moment, Manchester United holds the third position in the league table and is expected to finish in the top four, thereby securing a place in the Champions League.
Additionally, the Red Devils have greater financial resources than Liverpool, which could give them an advantage when it comes to signing new players.
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