According to Milan Live, AC Milan are preparing a strategic move to sign Mateo Kovacic, the 31-year-old Croatian midfielder currently playing for Manchester City. This potential transfer is planned for next summer, marking a significant effort by the Serie A club to strengthen their midfield with a proven, experienced player. The report sheds light on the club’s intentions, financial considerations, and the broader interest Kovacic is drawing from Europe’s top leagues.
AC Milan’s Interest in Mateo Kovacic: A Tactical Move
Mateo Kovacic has been a highly regarded midfielder throughout his career, known for his technical skills, versatility, and experience at the highest levels of football. Currently contracted with Manchester City until June 2027, this has not stopped AC Milan from eyeing him as a potential addition to their squad next year. According to Milan Live, the Serie A giants have identified Kovacic as a key target, believing that the Croatian could be available at a relatively reasonable transfer fee of around €10 million (£9 million).
Despite the extended duration of Kovacic’s contract with Manchester City, Milan’s assessment appears to hinge on the seemingly stagnant renewal negotiations. No new contract talks are reportedly underway, and this opens a window of opportunity for Milan to strike a favorable deal. Crucially, the club is aware of Kovacic’s current salary being significantly high and potentially beyond their usual wage structure. However, club officials remain optimistic, suggesting Kovacic would accept a salary reduction to join Milan and continue his career in Serie A.
Financial and Sporting Considerations in Kovacic’s Potential Transfer
The financial aspect of Kovacic’s possible transfer is intriguing. Initially joining Manchester City for an estimated £25 million, Kovacic’s market value currently stands at approximately €20 million according to Transfermarkt. The potential transfer fee of €10 million would represent a notable discount, possibly influenced by factors such as the player’s age, contract status, and willingness to move.
For AC Milan, signing Kovacic could be an astute investment. His experience within elite teams and competitions, including his time at Real Madrid and Inter Milan, would provide significant depth and leadership in midfield. However, Milan must balance the financial outlay with wage demands. The club’s confidence in Kovacic’s willingness to lower his salary could prove critical in finalizing any deal.
Competition from Premier League and LaLiga Clubs
The race to secure Kovacic’s services is far from exclusive to AC Milan. Milan Live also reveals that clubs in both the Premier League and LaLiga are closely monitoring Kovacic’s situation. These leagues boast several clubs financially capable of offering competitive packages to the Croatian midfielder, adding an extra layer of complexity to Milan’s pursuit.
Among Milan’s strategies to gain an edge over this competition is leveraging the strong personal connection Kovacic shares with Luka Modric, his long-time teammate from their days at Real Madrid and the Croatian national team. This camaraderie could be persuasive, potentially influencing Kovacic’s decision to favor Milan’s offer, where Modric’s presence may provide a more familiar and comfortable environment.
What Kovacic Brings to AC Milan
If the transfer goes ahead, Kovacic would bring valuable qualities to a Milan midfield known for its creativity and tenacity. His passing ability, vision, and capability to dictate tempo could mesh well with the team’s tactical setup. Furthermore, his experience in high-stakes matches and familiarity with Serie A would enable him to make an immediate impact.
At 31, Kovacic may not be the youngest player Milan could sign, but his blend of youthful energy and seasoned expertise addresses a critical balance for the club aiming to remain competitive both domestically and in European competitions.
Looking Ahead: The Next Steps in Kovacic’s Transfer Saga
While the reports from Milan Live provide enthusiasm and a clear plan regarding Kovacic, the next months will be crucial in determining whether this potential transfer materializes. Milan will need to finalize their offer, navigate wage discussions, and possibly fend off interest from rival clubs in the Premier League and Spain. Kovacic’s perspective and willingness to move will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the final outcome.
For now, AC Milan fans can remain optimistic about the possibility of adding a quality midfielder like Mateo Kovacic to their squad. If successful, this move could not only strengthen their midfield but also signal Milan’s ongoing ambition to compete among Europe’s elite.
In summary, AC Milan’s preparation for a move to acquire Mateo Kovacic reflects their strategic approach to building a competitive side by targeting a seasoned midfielder whose contract situation and personal connections present a promising opportunity. Whether Kovacic ultimately joins the Rossoneri remains to be seen, but the scenario undoubtedly adds another compelling chapter to the summer transfer narratives of 2025.
Here are three fun / light-hearted stories about Mateo Kovačić that reflect his personality off the pitch and some amusing moments.
1. The “silly-hand” celebration for his nieces
When Kovačić scored for Chelsea F.C. after a long goal-drought (over 1,000 days), he celebrated with a quirky hand-gesture rather than a typical celebration. He later revealed that the gesture was dedicated to his two nieces, one of whom has Down’s syndrome, because they used to do the same hand action together.
It’s a sweet story — what started as a joking “I need a celebration” moment turned into something meaningful. As he put it:
“I’ve had the celebration prepared for a while because I didn’t score last season!”
A reminder that even serious professionals have endearing, personal moments.
2. The almost-naked run across the pitch
In October 2022, after a match at Stamford Bridge, Kovačić jogged off the field wearing only his black underwear (Y-fronts), having apparently given his shirt and shorts away to fans in the crowd.
It gave quite a laugh (and plenty of viral footage). One fan wrote:
“No that is not a streaker, it’s Mateo Kovačić at full-time 🤣”
This shows his relaxed side — a spontaneous, playful act in the heat of the moment.
3. The “worst initiation song” for his new City teammates
When Kovačić joined Manchester City F.C. in the summer of 2023, part of his “initiation” in the squad on tour was to pick a song and sing it in front of the team. He chose “Good Morning Beautiful” by Steve Holy — and it didn’t exactly land. One teammate (birthday boy Erling Haaland) posted the video with the caption: “Thanks for the birthday song”.
It’s a perfect example of “funny guy in the dressing room” vibes — the kind of story that humanizes top-level footballers.
