Reports suggest that Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic has offered himself to AC Milan after holding talks with the Italian club’s chiefs. The 28-year-old’s contract with Chelsea expires at the end of next season, and he could be on his way out of the club.
According to Pianeta Milan, Milan chiefs Paolo Maldini and Frederic Massara met with Kovacic and his representatives in a London hotel to discuss a potential transfer. The Croatian midfielder has reportedly told Milan that he is willing to sign for them, and plans to leave Chelsea this summer as Todd Boehly prepares to further overhaul the squad.
Kovacic has been with Chelsea for five seasons and has played 210 times for the club, helping them win the Champions League in 2021. He has also enjoyed a good campaign, featuring in 26 games for the Blues and captaining the side in their last two wins over Borussia Dortmund and Leicester as Thiago Silva and Cesar Azpilicueta are out injured.
If Kovacic does move to Milan, it will be a controversial transfer after he played for rivals Inter Milan for three seasons between 2012 and 2015. The midfielder has previously been linked with a switch to Manchester City.
Chelsea could see up to 12 players leave Stamford Bridge this summer as Boehly looks to overhaul the squad. Kovacic’s departure would be a significant loss for the club, but it remains to be seen whether Milan will make a move for him.
Milan have been in good form this season, currently sitting second in Serie A behind city rivals Inter Milan. The club is looking to strengthen its midfield options, and Kovacic could be an excellent addition to their squad.
However, it remains to be seen whether Chelsea will be willing to let go of one of their key players. The Blues have been in good form this season, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League and still in contention for the FA Cup and Champions League titles.
Kovacic’s departure could also impact Chelsea’s transfer plans for the summer. The club has been linked with several midfield targets, including Declan Rice and Nicolo Barella. If Kovacic leaves, Chelsea may need to bring in a replacement to fill the void left by the Croatian midfielder.
Overall, it remains to be seen whether Kovacic will make the move to Milan or stay at Chelsea. The midfielder has been an important player for the Blues this season, and his departure would be a significant loss for the club. However, if Milan can offer him a better deal, it may be difficult for Kovacic to turn down the opportunity to play for one of Italy’s biggest clubs.