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Juventus 'want Mateo Kovacic in permanent Denis Zakaria deal'

Juventus 'want Kovacic in permanent Zakaria deal'
© Reuters
Juventus reportedly want to sign Mateo Kovacic as part of a deal that would see Denis Zakaria sign for Chelsea on a permanent deal.

Juventus reportedly want to sign Mateo Kovacic as part of the deal that would see Denis Zakaria complete a permanent transfer to Chelsea.

Zakaria joined Juventus from Borussia Monchengladbach in January 2022, but after making 15 appearances for the club, he joined Chelsea on a season-long loan deal last summer.

The Switzerland international only made one appearance for the Blues prior to the World Cup break, but he forced his way into the lineup following the resumption of club football.

Zakaria started four consecutive Premier League games for Chelsea, before he was forced off in last month's away defeat to Fulham.

The midfielder has missed the last three games with a thigh problem, but Chelsea are considering a permanent transfer after a number of impressive performances.

Denis Zakaria celebrates scoring for Chelsea on November 2, 2022© Reuters

Although the Blues reportedly have the option to buy Zakaria as part of his loan agreement, Juventus are hoping to include a player in a potential deal.

According to Calciomercato, Juventus are looking to agree a deal with Chelsea that would see Kovacic join the Italian club.

Juventus loaned Weston McKennie to Leeds United in the January transfer window, and they appear to be keen to strengthen their midfield.

The Croatia international, who is currently sidelined with a calf problem, has less than 18 months left on his contract.

However, it is currently unclear whether the Blues would be willing to let Kovacic leave as part of a swap deal for Zakaria.

Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic celebrates scoring against Red Bull Salzburg on October 25, 2022.© Reuters

Kovacic has previous experience of playing in Italy, after registering eight goals and 11 assists in 97 appearances for Inter Milan between 2013 and 2015.

The 28-year-old moved on to Real Madrid, before he joined Chelsea in the summer of 2019, where he has made 206 appearances, contributing with five goals and 14 assists.

Graham Potter will be hoping that Zakaria and Kovacic can return to full fitness in the near future as Chelsea prepare for Saturday's away meeting with West Ham United.

The Blues will then travel to Germany to face Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.

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Written by
Ben Sully

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