Manchester United prioritising January transfer swoop for Real Madrid midfielder after missing out on Barcelona star

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Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is reportedly making Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic a top transfer target after missing out on Barcelona’s Sergi Roberto.

Don Balon claim the Red Devils had been looking at the Spaniard before he signed a new deal with a bumper new release clause at the Nou Camp, seemingly ending their hopes.

The report now claims United have switched their attention to Kovacic, who has long been regarded as a promising talent despite a lack of regular playing time at the Bernabeu.

Still only 23, Kovacic could yet blossom into a fine midfield player, and looks just the kind of signing Mourinho needs ahead of next season due to the upcoming retirement of Michael Carrick, while Marouane Fellaini also looks to be heading for the exit as his contract will expire in the summer.

Mateo Kovacic has been linked with a transfer to Manchester United

Kovacic was tipped for big things at previous club Inter Milan, and while he hasn’t been a regular during his time at Real, he has picked up valuable experience of playing alongside big names and winning major honours.

The Croatia international has played 89 games for Los Blancos, winning two Champions League titles and La Liga in just two and a half seasons on their books.

Don Balon suggest United could do a deal for Kovacic now as they could tempt him with the first-team football he’ll need to ensure he makes his country’s World Cup squad for Russia this summer.

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