Chelsea have opened talks with Real Madrid over a permanent transfer for Mateo Kovacic, according to recent reports.
Croatia star Kovacic signed for Real Madrid in 2015 from Inter Milan but has struggled to establish himself as a starter at the club.
He signed a season-long loan deal with the Blues in the summer and has impressed under Maurizio Sarri, playing 20 games in all competitions.
Sarri is said to be interested in signing Kovacic on a permanent deal at Stamford Bridge and Chelsea have contacted Real Madrid to discuss a transfer, according to the Evening Standard.
Kovacic conceded he wanted to leave La Liga giants Real in the summer to play more football and appears to be enjoying his role in west London.
Speaking earlier in the campaign, the Croatian spoke of his joy at joining Chelsea.
‘I’m really happy at Chelsea,’ he said. ‘The city is amazing, the fans are great, the stadium, everything is nice, so I could imagine myself here.
‘After two years of struggling in Madrid, playing and then not playing, it was difficult. You don’t have the confidence, you don’t try the things you know.
‘This was my decision to go. Chelsea came, I spoke with the coach and the club. It was definitely just Chelsea for me. I wanted to come here and I am happy that it happened.’
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Chelsea, who are currently third in the Premier League table, face Wolves this weekend.
