Manchester City made progress and regression in their summer transfer activity on Tuesday when they confirmed the signing of Mateo Kovacic and unveiled him, while West Ham United rejected their £90 million for Declan Rice.

Pep Guardiola men unveiled £25 million signing Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea on Tuesday as the Croatian midfielder joined on a four-year deal, and his transfer details included a £5m add-on fee.

 The 29-year-old comes in just a few days after German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan left the club to join Barcelona on a free transfer after signing a three-year deal with the La Liga club.

The player went on to describe the transfer as “a brilliant move” and stated that he couldn’t wait to get started with City.

“Anyone who has watched this team under [manager] Pep [Guardiola] knows how good they are – for me; they are the best in the world. The trophies they have won are clear for all to see, but they are also the best footballing side out there. To be joining this squad really is a dream for any footballer. I still have plenty of learning and developing to do, and I know under Pep’s management, I can become a better player, which is really exciting for me.” Kovacic said.

Mateo Kovacic arrived at Chelsea from Real Madrid in 2019 on a £40 million move and becomes Manchester City’s first signing since the treble.

Meanwhile, West Ham United rejected Manchester City’s first bid for skipper Declan Rice in a £90 million offer. Declan Rice was subject to a move away from West Ham United at the end of last season, and the Hammers rejected a similar offer from Arsenal.

A second bid from Manchester City for the English midfielder is expected by The Hammers. Manchester City’s first bead includes a first payment of £80 million and a subsequent £10 million.

Daniel Ademiju Idowu