Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic has expressed his desire to leave the club this summer, putting Arsenal on high alert.
Football.London report that the Gunners will face competition from Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United for the player.
Kovacic has enjoyed a trophy-laden spell with the Spanish giants, winning three Champions Leagues, La Liga and the Copa Del Rey in just three seasons.
However, the Croatian is said to be unhappy with a lack of game time in Madrid and feels a move abroad will benefit his career in the long run.
The 24-year-old can be used in a number of central positions, including in a holding role or as a number 10, and was part of the Croatia squad that were beaten in the World Cup final to France.
Kovacic was largely used as a substitute last season, with then-coach Zinedine Zidane preferring Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Casemiro in the middle.
The midfielder is not prepared to wait and see whether his status will improve under new head coach Julen Lopetegui, and seems to be forcing a move.
In an interview with Spanish outlet Marca, he said:
I would like to play more at Madrid because I love football and being on the pitch. I know that at Madrid it’s difficult to be a starter, especially because I arrived very young.
I understand the situation but that’s why I think it’s best for me to go to another club where I will have the chance to play regularly as a starter. It’s an opportunity that I think I can have and I want it now.
