Manchester United are eagerly on the lookout for a new midfielder in the transfer market, as they attempt to replace the retiring Michael Carrick, who is yet to feature in the Premier League this season.
According to reports from AS, head coach Jose Mourinho is apparently interested in the services of Mateo Kovacic, who is expected to leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, after failing to find proper game-time under Zinedine Zidane. The Croatian International has only notched up 171 minutes of La Liga action so far this season, which is highly unsatisfactory for a player of his calibre.
Manchester United, on the other hand, are already lacking a bit of depth in the midfield department, with Michael Carrick injured while the likes of Ander Herrera and Marouane Fellaini are highly expected to leave the club in the summer. Therefore, going after the Real Madrid playmaker is actually a logical decision from the Red Devils.
Mateo Kovacic, despite failing to nail down a spot for himself in the Real Madrid starting lineup, has performed relatively well, considering how little game-time he received during his time at the Bernabeu.
Blessed with immense technical ability, Mateo Kovacic is primarily a central midfielder, who likes to orchestrate the play, just like Michael Carrick used to do at Manchester United in his prime. While defending may not be his best asset, Kovacic makes up for it, with his sensational ball-playing qualities as well as fantastic distribution.
Passing is by far one of his greatest assets, having recorded 91% passing completion rate in the Spanish top flight. The Croatian is highly capable of finding any teammate anywhere with his long-range distribution, which is coupled with his terrific movement across the turf. Furthermore, Mateo Kovacic is also an agile midfielder who can work hard for his team, a quality that is tailor-made for Jose Mourinho’s tactical philosophy.
The Croatian has been stuck behind the likes of Casemiro in the pecking order and will be eager to find proper game-time, meaning a move to Manchester United also makes sense not just for the club but for the player as well.
The Real Madrid midfielder will be a welcome addition at Old Trafford as based on displays this season, Jose does need fresher legs in midfield to revitalise his team as well as someone who can get the best out of the subdued Paul Pogba.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored
