On Saturday, The Daily Star published a story claiming Tottenham Hotspur have opened talks to sign Mateo Kovacic from Real Madrid. The English newspaper described Kovacic as ‘£22m-rated’ and that’s ended up in Spain as Tottenham being prepared to offer €25m for the player.
First things first, it’s the Catalan press who are running with the claims, pushing the idea of Real Madrid having a problem with too many players in their squad. Mundo Deportivo point out that Kovacic ‘lives in the shadow’ of Luka Modric, Casemiro, and Toni Kroos, it’s not such a bad shadow to be in for the 23 year old.
Previously when there have been suggestions of Kovacic leaving, Zinedine Zidane spoke to the player and convinced him to stay. Given any opportunity to say so recently, Kovacic always raves about Real Madrid and gives zero indication he wants to leave the club.
Still, Tottenham may have a small chance, especially with Madrid bringing in even more players. Looking at The Daily Star claims as an idea, rather than a scoop, makes it easier 
to take them seriously for jaded fans, and it’s not a bad idea.
It would be a hard task for Tottenham, and they’d almost certainly have to offer more than €25m.
Real Madrid paid €30m, and there’s no reason for them to lose money. Convincing Kovacic could be even harder and he’d want a role leading the Tottenham team forward, and even that may not be enough to tempt the Croatian.
Starting 23 games for Real Madrid last season, Kovacic is a used member of the squad.
