Chelsea could yet secure a deal for Mateo Kovacic despite the club’s transfer ban, according to the Mirror.

Real Madrid are prepared to extend the Croatian international’s loan for another year, but only if the Blues agree to sign the player for £26m next May.

The embargo prevents Chelsea from registering new players but as Kovacic is already on loan, this could workaround the ban without breaking any rules.

Blues boss Maurizio Sarri has already expressed his desire to extend the 24-year-old’s stay at Stamford Bridge beyond this season.

However, with the Italian’s own future still far from certain, it is not known whether Chelsea’s board would sanction the deal if there was a change in manager.

Kovacic has been a regular in the first team this campaign, having made 45 appearances for the London club in all competitions.

The midfielder has, though, struggled in the final third of the pitch, having garnered just two assists so far this season.