English giants Chelsea and Arsenal are both reportedly hot on the heels of talented Inter youngster Mateo Kovacic.
The 19-year-old Croatian international dubbed ‘the new Luca Modric,’ turned down Manchester United, Manchester City and Jose Mourinho’s Blues to sign for the Nerazzurri in January 2013 for a fee of €13 million plus bonuses, with the Biscione also rejecting an approach for the Dinamo Zagreb youth product from Borussia Dortmund during the winter transfer window.
According to Sports Direct News, London clubs Arsenal and Chelsea have been monitoring the Austrian-born playmaker, and sent scouts to see him in action for the Beneamata during the summer, with talks between the clubs expected to intensify over a possible transfer.
Kovacic has made 21 appearances for Inter so far this season, with only eight of those as a starter, and he could be lured away from Appiano Gentile with the promise of regular playing time and Champions League football.
The Nerazzuri currently lie in sixth position in Serie A, 11 points from third placed Napoli, with a place in next season’s Champions League looking increasingly unlikely.
Follow Anthony Alborino on Twitter: @anthonyalborino
