Mateo Kovacic 'asks to leave Real Madrid'

Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic has reportedly told the club that he wants to depart the Spanish capital.

Kovacic has made 109 appearances for the Champions League holders since joining from Inter Milan, but most of those have come from the substitutes' bench.

According to Spanish publication Sport, the Croatian is frustrated at a lack of playing time and has informed Madrid officials of his desire to find a new club.

The news outlet adds, however, that Kovacic's plea may not be answered, with the La Liga outfit keen to keep the squad together following the appointment of Julen Lopetegui as the team's new manager.

Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Casemiro started in midfield for Madrid's last outing in the Champions League final.