Mateo Kovacic admits he would love to see international teammate Josko Gvardiol join him at Man City this summer. Treble winners City have added just one new player to their side in the current transfer window, with Kovacic joining the club from Chelsea for an initial £25million. The Croatian international has already caught the eye with his pre-season performances under Pep Guardiola and it looks like he could play a key role for the side heading into the new campaign. Kovacic, 29, has already quickly settled into life at his new club, and he could soon be joined by international teammate Gvardiol as City look to reinforce their defensive options. City remain in talks with RB Leipzig over a possible deal for the centre-back, and Kovacic believes he would be a welcome addition to the side this summer.
Mateo Kovacic said: “Of course I’d like him to join. I know he’s very young and has great potential. He can come here and learn and be the best version of himself, like he wants to be for sure. But it’s not for me to comment if it’s going to happen or not. I’d obviously like it – I’m a good friend with him and he’s Croatian. It would be nice to have a Croatian by my side here.”
Gvardiol is one of the most highly rated defenders in Europe, but at the age of just 21, it might take some time for him to settle if he does indeed complete a move to the Premier League. Having a compatriot in the form of Kovacic alongside him could help him adapt quickly to his potential new surroundings, though the City midfielder doesn’t have any concerns about him fitting it.
Mateo Kovacic added: “He’s still young but he’s very mature for his age. He doesn’t need too much advice. He’s already played a lot of big games and I think he’s ready for this step. He had a great World Cup and a great season with RB Leipzig so it would be nice for him to join such a big club and try to improve even more.”
