Another Midfielder Heading for the Exit
Mateo Kovacic looks set to become the latest player to leave Manchester City this summer. Two separate reports have emerged suggesting the Croatian midfielder is expected to move on before the new season begins.
Sam Lee, writing in The Athletic's weekly Transfer DealSheet, has indicated that Kovacic is considered likely to leave the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders. No interested clubs were named in that report.
Over at Football Insider, Wayne Veysey and Evan Lloyd have gone further, reporting that City have told Kovacic he is free to find a new club. The signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest appears to have pushed the 32-year-old down the pecking order, with the midfielder now deemed surplus to requirements.
It's not exactly a shock. Given Kovacic's age and injury history, the writing has been on the wall for a while.
Still a Role if No Move Materialises
That said, if a summer move doesn't come together, Kovacic could still have a part to play. His experience could be valuable for Enzo Maresca's squad, particularly after a strong showing at the 2026 World Cup.
Kovacic missed most of last season after Achilles surgery, but his performances for Croatia in the summer suggested he still has quality. A regular starting spot looks unlikely at City, especially with another midfielder reportedly on the club's shopping list. But as a squad option, he might still offer something.
For all parties, a move probably makes sense. Kovacic would get the regular football he needs at this stage of his career, and City free up a squad place. If that doesn't happen, though, he remains a useful body in the dressing room.