Arsenal To Rival Liverpool For £17m-Rated Midfielder

Pedro Alvarez

4 min read

Post on May 20, 2025

4.1

Share

The £17m-Rated Midfielder: Profile and Strengths

Player Identity and Current Club: The player in question is Mateo Kovic, currently playing for Sporting CP in Portugal's Primeira Liga. He is a 23-year-old Croatian attacking midfielder known for his exceptional technical skills and tireless work rate.

Playing Style and Key Strengths:

Mateo Kovic is a dynamic attacking midfielder with a knack for creating scoring opportunities. His key strengths include:

• Excellent passing range: Kovic possesses an exceptional ability to pick out passes over long and short distances, finding teammates in dangerous positions.
• Strong dribbling skills: He's adept at beating defenders one-on-one, using his close control and agility to weave through tight spaces.
• Creative playmaking skills: Kovic's vision and creativity allow him to unlock defenses with incisive passes and through balls.
• Goal-scoring threat: Despite being primarily a playmaker, he boasts a good goal-scoring record, regularly contributing goals from midfield.
• High work rate: Kovic is a tireless worker, constantly tracking back to help his team defensively and contributing significantly to the pressing game.

Recent Performances and Statistics:

In the 2022-2023 season, Kovic scored 8 goals and provided 12 assists in 35 appearances for Sporting CP. His performances have drawn significant attention from top European clubs, solidifying his reputation as a rising star. His impressive statistics and consistent contributions highlight his potential to make an immediate impact at the highest level.

Arsenal's Interest and Potential Impact

Arsenal's Need for a Midfielder:

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to bolster his midfield options. While Arsenal possesses talented midfielders, adding a player like Kovic would provide crucial squad depth and tactical flexibility. The signing would address the need for another creative midfielder capable of unlocking stubborn defenses and contributing consistently to the attack.

How the Player Fits Arsenal's Style:

Kovic's dynamic style of play, characterized by quick passing, intelligent movement, and a high work rate, aligns perfectly with Arteta's possession-based system. His ability to create chances and contribute defensively would make him a valuable asset to Arsenal's squad.

Potential Competition for Playing Time:

Kovic would face competition for a starting spot from established players like Martin Ødegaard and Granit Xhaka. However, his versatility and ability to play in various midfield roles would ensure he gets ample opportunities to showcase his talent.

Liverpool's Interest and Potential Impact

Liverpool's Need for a Midfielder:

Liverpool are also in the market for midfield reinforcements following a season of injury concerns and inconsistencies in the middle of the park. Kovic's versatility and potential would provide Jurgen Klopp with valuable squad rotation options and vital injury cover.

How the Player Fits Liverpool's Style:

Kovic's energetic and pressing style of play complements Liverpool's high-intensity approach. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively would make him a valuable asset in Klopp's system.

Potential Competition for Playing Time:

At Liverpool, Kovic would encounter stiff competition from the likes of Thiago Alcântara, Fabinho, and Jordan Henderson. However, his youth and potential to develop into a top-class midfielder would make him a worthy contender for a starting position.

The Transfer Battle and Potential Outcome

Transfer Fee and Contract Negotiations:

The reported £17 million transfer fee is considered reasonable for a player of Kovic's potential. However, negotiations between the clubs and the player's representatives could potentially lead to a higher fee depending on add-ons and bonuses.

Other Clubs Interested (If Applicable):

While Arsenal and Liverpool are leading the race, other European clubs are reportedly monitoring Kovic's situation. The level of competition may further drive up the transfer fee.

Prediction on the Player's Destination:

Given both club's needs and Kovic's style of play, the outcome of this transfer battle remains uncertain. However, Arsenal’s current need for a player of Kovic’s profile and the potential playing time on offer might slightly edge them ahead in the race.

Conclusion:

This summer transfer window sees Arsenal and Liverpool locked in a battle for the signature of the £17m-rated midfielder, Mateo Kovic. His creative playmaking, tireless work rate, and goal-scoring ability make him an attractive prospect for both clubs. While the final outcome remains uncertain, the transfer saga promises an exciting conclusion. Will Arsenal or Liverpool secure the services of this highly-rated midfielder? Keep checking back for the latest news on this developing Arsenal and Liverpool transfer battle!