Manchester United have shown interest in signing Real Madrid star Mateo Kovacic, with Real Madrid accepting that their back-up midfielder would like more regular game time. However, the Red Devils could find luring the Croatia international away from the Bernabeu an expensive task.
While Real understands Kovacic’s frustrations, they value him highly and are reluctant to sell, according to the Daily Mail. As a result, any potential negotiations between United and the European champions won’t be straightforward. Real signed the 24-year-old for £25m from Inter Milan in 2015.
Kovacic has largely featured as an option from the bench during his three years in Madrid. He has still managed to amass 109 appearances, though, and is contracted with Real until 2021. A £264m buyout clause in his current deal also means Real would demand a hefty fee from Manchester United.
Marouane Fellaini’s imminent departure on a free means a hole needs filling in Jose Mourinho’s side, despite the £52m arrival of Brazil international Fred.