In a recent report, the Evening Standard stated that Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic is open to discussing the terms of a new contract. It is understood that the Croat sensation has shown his desire to enter talks with the Blues over a new deal with his current one set to run out in the summer of 2024.
Kovacic’s Impressive Form In West London This Season
Kovacic has made a solid start to this campaign as he has managed to put in a few impressive displays at the heart of Chelsea’s midfield. The 83-time Croatia international has made 13 appearances for the West London club this season, scoring one time and picking up one assist in the process across multiple competitions.
The 28-year-old has seen most of his playing opportunities come off the bench which explains why he is only averaging 1.3 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, 0.5 clearances, 0.8 shots and 1.0 key passes per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He has even been tidy when interchanging possession with his teammates, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 84.5% in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).
Kovacic has already proven himself to be a valuable presence in Graham Potter’s squad over the past few months. Hence, it is only logical for the Blues to offer him a new contract.
Should Chelsea Head Coach Graham Potter Tie Kovacic Down To A New Contract?
Kovacic is a tough-tackling midfielder who can make the odd interception for his team at the centre of the park. He has got the ability to score a few wonderful goals from long range as he has got great technique and is usually quite accurate with his shots at goal. Plus, the Croatia international has got the vision to cut open the opposition’s defence with a killer pass on the attacking end of the pitch.
At 28, Kovacic has still got a lot of football left in his locker and knows what it takes to win trophies with Chelsea at the highest level. Therefore, it makes a lot of sense for Graham Potter to tie him down to a new, long-term contract at Stamford Bridge as he remains a key member of his match-day squad.
Kovacic is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also serve as a defensive midfielder or as an attacking midfielder if needed. His versatility and experience have made him an irreplaceable member of the West London club‘s dressing room. All in all, both Chelsea and the Croat midfield ace can benefit from prolonging their time together in search of more trophies in the coming seasons.