Forest and Villa eye Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic

Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa are reportedly circling Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic, the 32‑year‑old Croatia international with just twelve months remaining on his contract, as the English club prepares a midfield overhaul following Pep Guardiola’s departure. Director of football Hugo Viana has placed the revamp at the top of his agenda. Kovacic, 32, is in the final year of his Manchester City contract, which expires next summer. His limited playing time has prompted Forest and Villa to consider a move. Manchester City have agreed a record £115 million deal for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, a transfer confirmed late on Thursday. The fee would surpass Jack Grealish’s £100 million move from Villa, highlighting City’s willingness to invest heavily. The agreement follows two earlier attempts that were rejected by Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis. Director of football Hugo Viana has placed the midfield revamp at the top of his agenda. The overhaul follows Pep Guardiola’s departure and the expected appointment of Enzo Maresca as the new manager.

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City’s scouting list also includes Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali. Tonali’s presence adds further competition for midfield places. Kovacic made only six Premier League appearances last season, the fewest of his career. An Achilles injury required surgery twelve months ago, causing him to miss the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. After a second operation in November 2025, he returned to action in April and earned a spot in Croatia’s World Cup squad.

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Elliot Anderson’s arrival intensifies the battle for starting positions, with Tijjani Reijnders’ future also uncertain. Kovacic remains a target for both Forest and Villa as they seek experienced midfield options. Having played nearly 600 professional games, Kovacic brings extensive experience to any suitor. In his 97 appearances for City, he has been praised for controlling tempo and providing leadership in the centre of the park.