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Arsenal are reportedly tracking down Dinamo Zagreb midfielder Martin Baturina ahead of the new season. He signed a new agreement in April, which extended his stay in Zagreb until June 2028.
According to the Express (h/t LondonWorld), Arsenal have been keeping a close eye on him during this summer’s UEFA European Under-21s Championship. He featured in all three group stage matches as his side mustered just one point after games against Ukraine, Romania and Spain.
Arsenal’s interest in the 20-year-old midfielder came as a result of regular scouting trips to spot Zagreb’s centre-back Josip Sotalo. It is unlikely Arsenal will make a move for the 23-year-old after signing Jurrien Timber.
However, Baturina could be an addition to Mikel Arteta’s side this summer. He has already been compared to Real Madrid star Luka Modric by many pundits.
Baturina, who can play as an attacking midfielder and number 8, has been at the Croatian giants’ academy since 2017. During that time, he’s scored eight goals and 18 assists in 68 senior matches across competitions.
Meanwhile, Arsenal signed Declan Rice for a club record fee of £105m earlier this month. But they could be short in midfield next season if Thomas Partey follows Granit Xhaka out of the UAE in the coming weeks.
Juventus are interested in the 30-year-old Ghana international while clubs in Saudi Arabia are also linked with a transfer.
Declan Rice dreams of winning the Champions League with Arsenal
Next season, Declan Rice will get the opportunity to play in the UEFA Champions League for the first time in his career.
The England international led West Ham United to the Europa League title last season. But the best the Hammers could manage was to qualify for the Europa League.
Meanwhile, Arsenal returned to play in UEFA’s premier club championship for the first time since the 2016-17 season. Rice is expected to be a key part of Mikel Arteta’s squad for the competition.
Speaking about his dream of playing in the Champions League with Arsenal, Rice recently told the club’s official website:
“I’m really excited about it. I’ve said for many years now that I want to play in the Champions League. I wanted to push myself to the highest level. This opportunity arose at Arsenal where Arsenal are in the Champions League, it’s a great club.
“At the end of the day you get one career, and I want to be as successful as I can be with Arsenal, make as many Champions League appearances as possible and hopefully get that trophy one day.”
The 24-year-old has penned a five-year contract at the Emirates and will wear the number 41 shirt.
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