Josip Sutalo would be a ‘great loss’ at Dinamo Zagreb if the Croatia international joins Premier League runners-up Arsenal during the summer transfer window.
That is according to Igor Biscan; the one-time Liverpool midfielder who took over at Dinamo Zagreb in April and coached the Croatian giants to yet another league title within weeks of his appointment at the Stadion Maksimir
Following the January departure of top scorer and talisman Mislav Orsic, the likes of Josip Sutalo have stepped up. The talented centre-half catching the eye of Arsenal on the back of some colossal performances at the heart of Biscan’s backline.
According to The Standard, Mikel Arteta’s side are scouting the £18 million-rated 23-year-old; a right-footed centre-half who would likely replace Rob Holding at the Emirates while providing serious competition for William Saliba.
Is Josip Sutalo on his way to Arsenal from Dinamo Zagreb?
“Josip Sutalo is somehow always at the exit door,” Biscan tells Sportske Novosti when asked about those Arsenal rumours.
“Since I arrived at Dinamo, especially the last four or five games, he has made a very serious shift. He really looks very, very good. Dominant.
“The departure of Josip will be a great loss. We will hardly be able to find a player who will be able to replace him to some extent.”
Leeds United have also been linked with Sutalo (SN). Leeds’ relegation after three rather mixed years in the Premier League, however, draws a line under any lingering hopes that the 6ft 3ins colossus could be lured to Elland Road during the summer transfer window.
Sutalo, meanwhile, admitted recently that he is flattered by Arsenal’s interest, albeit while reluctant to give a clear answer on whether or not he would consider a move to North London.
“Obviously you know something that I don’t!” he laughs. “I don’t deal with those things. I am concentrating exclusively on Dinamo, the national team and my game.
“As for those rumours, it is a kind of proof that I am on the right path. Am I ready to leave? I can only say that I am very happy in my Dinamo. The club offers me everything a young player should have.
“On the other hand, we know how Dinamo works and we’ll see what happens in the summer. I don’t bother with those things, and I don’t like to talk about it. Let the profession judge. It’s up to me to keep working hard on the field, and then we’ll see what the future brings.”
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