Football transfers: Manchester City sign Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea in £25m deal plus add-ons

Manchester City have made their first signing of the summer, securing the services of Croatia midfielder Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea in a deal worth an initial £25m. The agreement also includes possible add-ons of up to £5m, and Kovacic has committed to a four-year contract with the club.

The acquisition of Kovacic comes after Manchester City's triumphant season, where they clinched the treble by winning the Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup titles.

Kovacic's arrival follows Ilkay Gundogan's departure to Barcelona on a free transfer.

Kovacic joined Chelsea from Real Madrid in August 2018. Initially arriving on loan, he later signed a five-year contract with the Blues. Kovacic made 37 appearances for Chelsea as they finished 12th in the Premier League last season.

The Croatian midfielder won the 2021 Champions League with Chelsea, featuring as a substitute in their 1-0 victory over Manchester City.

Kovacic, a prominent figure in the Croatian national team, has made 95 appearances for his country and played all matches for his side in the 2022 World Cup, where Croatia finished in third place.

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