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Liverpool Transfer News: Kovacic wanted to replace Coutinho but Chelsea interested in deal
LIVERPOOL reportedly want Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic to replace Philippe Coutinho - but Chelsea are interested too.
Liverpool continue to look likely to lose Coutinho to Barcelona, with the La Liga side hellbent on signing the midfielder.
Kovacic has emerged as a potential replacement with the Croatia international currently behind the likes of Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in Real Madrid's pecking order.
However, Spanish outlet Diario Gol claim Chelsea are also interested in signing the midfielder.
It is an open secret that Blues boss Antonio Conte wants more arrivals despite bringing in four new faces so far.
Express Sport understands deals for Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Leicester's Danny Drinkwater are close to completion.
Liverpool Transfer News: Jurgen Klopp could be challenged by Chelsea over Mateo Kovacic
But Chelsea could yet open the cheque book for even more new faces.
Diario Gol add, however, that Kovacic was not initially Conte's first choice.
Instead, the Blues gaffer was keen to snap up Barcelona utility man Sergi Roberto.
The Spain international impressed at right-back last term despite being a natural central midfielder.
Liverpool Transfer News: Chelsea are keen on Reds target Mateo Kovacic
Liverpool Transfer News: Chelsea target Mateo Kovacic is wanted to replace Philippe Coutinho
And Conte wanted him to return to his normal position over at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking earlier this month, Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde ruled out the 25-year-old leaving.
“I absolutely count on Sergi Roberto," he said.
"He’s a very important player for us. There’s no doubt about that."