Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane is determined not to lose Mateo Kovacic this summer.

The midfielder has been linked with a return to Serie A, where AC Milan are keen.

However, Diario Gol says Zidane has told president Florentino Perez he doesn't want to see Kovacic sold.

The coach has also spoken to Kovacic, urging him to be patient and assuring the midfielder there'll be greater playing chances next season.

Kovacic is the only able backup Zidane has in his squad for first-choice defensive midfielder Casemiro.