At the moment, the major European teams are planning what they want their squad to look like for the upcoming season. It's necessary to have everything well planned to achieve the desired roster, and, as it couldn't be otherwise, this is what Atlético de Madrid is doing. Real Madrid's great rival seems to have set its sights on a former Madrid player, who would be delighted to return to the Spanish capital.
We are talking about Mateo Kovacic. What Simeone wants for the next season is to strengthen the '5' position, something journalist Rubén Uría has discovered, and it seems his target is the Croatian. Recently, 'CaughtOffside' has reported that Atlético de Madrid's board has shown interest in the footballer who plays for Manchester City, whose past is at Real Madrid.
It seems that Manchester City would be willing to let Mateo Kovacic go in the coming months. He is not untouchable at the Etihad and is valued at about 30 million euros. This is the price that the Colchoneros could pay, with the intention of strengthening their midfield.
Mateo Kovacic, Past at Real Madrid
Mateo Kovacic is already 30 years old, and he will turn 31 in the coming months. He has worn the jerseys of multiple major European clubs, starting with Inter Milan. He arrived there in 2013 and two years later headed to Real Madrid, which paid 38 million to acquire him.
He spent three years at Real Madrid, wearing the white jersey for a total of 73 matches. He won one La Liga, one Spanish Super Cup, three Champions Leagues, two UEFA Super Cups, and two FIFA Club World Cups.
After this excellent track record, he opted for a complete change of scenery, moving to Chelsea on loan in 2018, which a year later paid 45 million euros for him. He stayed there until 2023, leaving the London club to join Manchester City for 29 million euros, where he is now.
Mateo Kovacic's next step could once again be in Spain, repeating his adventure in Madrid. Atlético wants to take him, City is willing to negotiate, and the Croatian intends to start a new chapter. We will have to stay alert, as he could reunite with Real Madrid wearing the jersey of one of its great rivals.