Manchester City player ‘would welcome’ exit despite being regular – Club want Pep’s side to reduce price ‘a lot
Mateo Kovačić, a key figure in Manchester City’s midfield this season, has been a regular starter under Pep Guardiola, amassing 2,113 minutes across 32 games in all competitions. Despite his consistent involvement, the Croatian international’s long-term future at the Etihad Stadium appears uncertain. Recent reports suggest that Manchester City are planning a squad overhaul in the summer, and Kovačić could be one of the players on the chopping block.
Speculation about Kovačić’s future has been fueled by claims in the UK media that Manchester City are looking to revamp their squad ahead of the 2025/26 season. The 30-year-old midfielder, who will turn 31 in May, has been linked with a move away from the club, with Atlético Madrid emerging as a potential destination.
Initial reports suggested that Atlético Madrid could secure Kovačić’s services for a fee in the region of €30 million. However, Spanish outlet *Mundo Deportivo* has since provided a different perspective, indicating that the La Liga giants are unwilling to meet this valuation for a player entering the latter stages of his career. According to the report, Atlético would only consider signing Kovačić if Manchester City significantly reduce their asking price.
While Kovačić’s future remains up in the air, one thing is clear: the midfielder is not keen on a move to Turkey. Despite interest from Fenerbahçe, where José Mourinho currently manages, Kovačić’s preference is to continue playing in one of Europe’s top five leagues. This has opened the door for a potential return to Spain, where he previously enjoyed a successful spell with Real Madrid.
Kovačić is said to be open to the idea of relaunching his career in La Liga, and a move to Atlético Madrid could provide him with the perfect opportunity to do so. The Croatian international has fond memories of Madrid, having spent five years in the Spanish capital before joining Chelsea in 2018. A return to the city, albeit with Atlético, could reignite his career and allow him to compete at the highest level once again.
Manchester City’s reported decision to part ways with Kovačić is part of a broader strategy to refresh their squad. Despite his regular involvement this season, the club appears to be planning for the future, with younger players likely to take center stage in the coming years. Kovačić’s age and contract situation may have influenced this decision.
The midfielder’s current deal runs until 2027, meaning Manchester City are under no immediate pressure to sell. However, if the right offer comes in, the club could be tempted to cash in on a player who is unlikely to be a long-term fixture in Guardiola’s plans.
Atlético Madrid’s interest in Kovačić is understandable, given his experience and technical ability. However, the Spanish club’s reluctance to meet Manchester City’s €30 million valuation reflects their cautious approach to transfers. With Kovačić turning 31 in May, Atlético are wary of committing a significant fee to a player who may have limited resale value.
Mundo Deportivo suggests that Atlético would only pursue the deal if Manchester City are willing to lower their asking price. While the report does not specify the exact figure Atlético are prepared to offer, it is clear that the two clubs will need to find common ground if the transfer is to materialize.
In addition to Atlético Madrid, Kovačić has also been linked with a move to Fenerbahçe. The Turkish club, managed by José Mourinho, is reportedly interested in bringing the midfielder to Istanbul. However, Kovačić’s desire to remain in one of Europe’s top leagues makes this move unlikely.
Mourinho’s admiration for Kovačić dates back to their time together at Chelsea, and the Portuguese manager has previously attempted to sign the midfielder for Manchester United in 2018. While a reunion with Mourinho could be appealing, Kovačić’s preference for a move to Spain or another top European league means that Fenerbahçe may struggle to convince him to make the switch.
For Manchester City, the potential sale of Kovačić represents an opportunity to refresh their midfield options. While the Croatian has been a reliable performer this season, the club’s focus on youth and long-term planning suggests that his time at the Etihad may be coming to an end.
Guardiola’s side boasts a wealth of midfield talent, including the likes of Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, and Kevin De Bruyne. With younger players such as Cole Palmer and James McAtee also vying for opportunities, Kovačić’s departure could pave the way for the next generation to step up.
Mateo Kovačić’s future at Manchester City hangs in the balance as the club prepares for a summer squad overhaul. Despite being a regular starter this season, the Croatian midfielder could be on his way out, with Atlético Madrid emerging as a potential destination.
While Kovačić’s desire to continue playing in one of Europe’s top leagues aligns with Atlético’s ambitions, the Spanish club’s reluctance to meet Manchester City’s €30 million valuation could complicate matters. If the two clubs can agree on a reduced fee, a move to Madrid could provide Kovačić with the perfect opportunity to reignite his career.
For Manchester City, the potential sale of Kovačić represents a chance to refresh their squad and make room for younger talent. As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on the Etihad to see how Guardiola’s side navigates this period of transition.
