Mateo Kovacic told one area he must improve at Man City to replace Ilkay Gundogan

Graeme Souness has challenged Mateo Kovacic to add more goals to his game to replace Ilkay Gundogan at Manchester City.

The Croatian midfielder has taken the departed captain's number eight shirt and is expected to line-up alongside Rodri in midfield against Burnley. Kovacic has been signed from Chelsea to bolster midfield numbers, although he doesn't necessarily pose the same threat in the opposition box.

The 29-year-old only scored four Premier League during his time at Stamford Bridge, whilst Gundogan scored eight alone last season. Souness believes he must improve that record if he is to truly replace the departed skipper.

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“He is a smart signing for what City need after losing their captain Ilkay [Ilkay] Gundogan," he told the Mail. "He can play and will work hard. I can see him doing a decent job for City and they know what they’re getting. There isn’t much risk with this one.

“But he is an offensive midfielder who does not score enough goals. He scored three times in 109 games for Real Madrid, a team who dominate every game they play.

“Can he add goals at City, like Gundogan did? If so, they’ve got a great deal at £25 million.”

Manchester City are still interested in adding another midfielder to their ranks. A bid for Lucas Paqueta was knocked back earlier this week with West Ham boss David Moyes insisting the offer was nowhere near the Hammers' valuation.

Every player, every position - click on the links below for Joe Bray's comprehensive guide to Pep Guardiola's squad and what the coming season might bring for them: