Mateo Kovacic actually played a role in Manchester City allowing Cole Palmer to leave the Etihad Stadium for Chelsea.
That is according to the Telegraph.
So, how did Mateo Kovacic influence Manchester City‘s decision to sell Cole Palmer? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, the Croatia international left Chelsea for Manchester City in a deal worth £30m on Tuesday 27th June.
The Telegraph now claim that this transfer played a key role in Manchester City allowing Palmer to join a traditional rival, as relations were strengthened during negotiations for Kovacic.
Chelsea’s decision to let the Croatian join Manchester City without making things difficult for the treble winners ensured Pep Guardiola’s side did likewise, when Mauricio Pochettino came knocking for Palmer.
It was a deal which raised eyebrows all across England at the time.
Chelsea spent £42.5m on Palmer – despite the fact he had only made five Premier League starts at Manchester City.
Nevertheless, Chelsea’s faith in the 21-year-old has paid off, and he is now shining for the Blues.
After finally breaking into the starting XI under Pochettino, Palmer has scored three goals and provided two assists in his last four Premier League appearances.
Manchester City told they offloaded another Riyad Mahrez in Cole Palmer
Manchester City have received a bit of stick for selling Palmer.
Anton Ferdinand said he was shocked to see the treble winners let the England Under-21 international go, while adding that he looks set to develop into another Riyad Mahrez.
Sam Allardyce has also expressed his surprise at Manchester City’s decision.
Ultimately, Palmer wanted to go – as mentioned in the Telegraph – and Guardiola is known for not standing in the way of those keen to depart, so nobody can really criticise Manchester City for selling the forward.
It was either that, or keep him at the Etihad Stadium against his will.
