Chelsea intend to agree deal with Real Madrid midfielder

Chelsea are looking to secure the signature of Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic on a permanent basis during this summer's transfer window.

The Blues are presently under a transfer ban for the next year but they are still permitted to sign Kovacic on a permanent basis, given he has already been registered with the side.

According to Marca, the west London side are keen on landing the services of Kovacic on a permanent basis after the midfielder impressed on a season-long loan last term.

The same publication claims that the club are prepared to match Real Madrid's £49m valuation for the midfielder, who was part of the Croatian team which reached the World Cup final last summer.

Aside from Kovacic, the Blues could also land Gonzalo Higuain on a permanent deal following his short-term loan but that appears unlikely to happen at the moment.

The likes of Tammy Abraham and Michy Batshuayi will be returning for pre-season duties following their respective loan moves and the duo could get the chance to feature upfront next season.