Juventus demanding Chelsea 28-year-old superstar in permanent Denis Zakaria deal’
According to reports, Juventus is interested in signing Mateo Kovacic as part of a deal that would see Chelsea acquire Denis Zakaria permanently.
Zakaria joined Juventus from Borussia Monchengladbach in January 2022, but after making 15 appearances for the club, he joined Chelsea on loan for a season in the summer of 2022.
Prior to the World Cup break, the Switzerland international made only one appearance for the Blues; however, he forced his way into the starting lineup after club football resumed.
Zakaria started four consecutive Premier League games for Chelsea before being injured in a loss at Fulham last month.
The midfielder has missed the last three games due to a hamstring injury, but Chelsea is contemplating a permanent transfer after a string of impressive performances.
Although the Blues reportedly have the option to purchase Zakaria as part of his loan agreement, Juventus would like to include a player in a potential trade.
Calcio Mercato Web reports that Juventus is attempting to negotiate a deal with Chelsea that would see Kovacic join the Italian club.
Juventus sold Weston McKennie to Leeds United during the January transfer window, and they appear eager to bolster their midfield.
Less than 18 months remain on the contract of the Croatian international, who is currently sidelined with a calf injury.
However, it is currently unknown if the Blues would be willing to let Kovacic leave in exchange for Zakaria.
Kovacic has previous experience playing in Italy, having recorded eight goals and eleven assists in 97 appearances for Inter Milan between 2013 and 2015.
The 28-year-old moved on to Real Madrid before joining Chelsea in the summer of 2019, where he has made 206 appearances and contributed 14 assists and five goals.
Graham Potter will hope that Zakaria and Kovacic can return to full fitness soon as Chelsea prepares for Saturday’s home match against West Ham United.
The Blues will then travel to Germany to take on Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal matchup.
Juventus demanding Chelsea 28-year-old superstar in permanent Denis Zakaria deal’
