Manchester City have signed Croatian midfielder Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea for £25m plus add-ons.
The 29-year-old has joined City on a four-year deal and his arrival comes after the club announced the free transfer of Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona.
Kovacic is City’s first signing of the summer after winning the Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup titles last season.
“This is a brilliant move for me,” Kovacic said.
The new recruit is enjoying the opportunity to play for City manager Pep Guardiola.
“Anyone who has seen this team under Pep knows how good they are: for me, they are the best in the world. The trophies they have won are clear to everyone, but they are also the best footballers out there.” Kovacic said.
“Getting into this team is really a dream for any footballer. I still have a lot to learn and develop, and I know that under Pep’s guidance I can be a better player, which is very exciting for me.
“My plan now is to rest for a few weeks before returning to Manchester to prepare for the new season. I want to help this club stay at the top and win more trophies.”
Kovacic joined Chelsea from Real Madrid in August 2018, initially on loan, before signing a five-year contract.
He made 37 appearances for the club in a turbulent campaign last season as they finished 12th in the top flight.
Kovacic was part of Chelsea’s Champions League winning side in 2021, coming on as a late substitute in the 1-0 final win against City.
At international level, Kovacic has made 95 appearances for Croatia, playing in every game, as they finished third at the 2022 World Cup.
“It was a very simple decision to bring him to City because he has the tactical and technical qualities we look for in a midfielder,” said City’s director of football Txiki Begiristain.
“He’s someone we’ve monitored for a long time and he’s always impressed us every time we’ve seen him.”
