According to a recent report by the Metro, Chelsea have still not spoken with Mateo Kovacic over his long-term future at Stamford Bridge and have been given just seven days to decide on whether they want to retain the Croatian midfielder permanently.
Kovacic’s Disappointing Loan Spell At Chelsea
Kovacic joined the Pensioners on a season-long loan deal last summer, but he has failed to prove his worth on his debut season in the Premier League. However, the Croatia international still managed to win the UEFA Europa League under Maurizio Sarri in the previous campaign which goes to show that he is a player who is more than what meets the eyes.
The West London outfit would now have to make up their mind on whether they want to keep hold of Kovacic especially after being handed a two-transfer window ban by FIFA earlier this summer.
The former Inter Milan talent made 51 appearances for Chelsea last season, but he is yet to open his goal-scoring account for the Blues of London. To his credit, he has got two assists to his name during his loan spell at Stamford Bridge. The 25-year-old is vastly experienced at the international level having made 52 appearances for Croatia while scoring one goal for them thus far.
What Does The Croatian Talent Offer On The Pitch?
Kovacic is a box to box midfielder who can pass the ball accurately but lacks creativity in the opposition half. He can make some good runs from midfield which enables him to take up some dangerous positions in the final third. However, he is not composed in front of the opposing goal, which could be the reason behind his recent goal drought.
Should Chelsea Opt To Recruit Kovacic Permanently This Summer?
The West London giants should ideally try and retain as many senior players as they can get to cope with their transfer ban. However, in case of Kovacic, the dilemma is whether he would ever be good enough to put in a consistent run of performances in the Premier League.
If last season were anything to go by, then Chelsea would be better of not signing him permanently this summer.
