With Manchester United landing Fred’s signature, are Tottenham Hotspur now in the clear to sign Mateo Kovacic?
Manchester United were said to be rivalling Tottenham Hotspur in their pursuit of Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic, according to a report from Mundo Deportivo, but their recent business suggests Spurs may now be in the clear.
Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino is said to be very keen on the Croatian international, and could line up a move to see the 24-year-old take Mousa Dembele’s place at White Hart Lane next term (according to recent reports from the Telegraph) although interest from United would have complicated proceedings.
However, Jose Mourinho has landed a high-profile midfielder in Shakhtar Donetsk’s Fred last night, which likely signifies an end to the pursuit of Kovacic this summer.
The Brazilian is said to be arriving for a hefty fee of around £50 million, suggesting Mourinho’s midfield business is likely complete for next term, with Nemanja Matic, Paul Pogba and Fred sure to be the first-team trio at Old Trafford.
However, Pochettino’s pursuit of Kovacic will not go entirely uncontested, as Schalke are reportedly keen on striking a deal this summer, according to reports from Marca, so the Argentine will have to move soon if he wants to ensure Tottenham land a player that would be an immediate upgrade in the centre of the park.
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