Croatian Under 21 international Darko Bodul has completed his much needed transfer out of Ajax, signing to Portuguese side Nachional. Bodul, 22 will team up with Dejan Skolnik who has impressed since arriving from Maribor. Elsewhere Ivan Klasnic is set for added competition after Daniel Sturridge signed on loan at Bolton Wanderers from Chelsea. Niko Kranjcar is staying put and won't be leaving Tottenham Hotspur as has only recently become a father.
As of this moment Marko Babic, Ivan Bosnjak, Dino Drpic, Miroslav Saric, Domogoj Abramovic, Ivan Rodic and Marko Maric are all still free agents and are free to move after the transfer deadline. However Jurica Vranjes will spend another six months without football after failing to gain a transfer out of Werder Bremen. Instead the 30 year old midfielder will run down his contract which expires in the summer.
Slovan Liberec meantime, have allowed striker Andrej Keric to transfer across to Sparta Prague after threatening to dump the former Cibalia player in the reserve team. Liberec were annoyed at the player running down his contract, but have finally recieved compenation for Keric who scored 6 goals this season so far.
Monday, 31 January 2011
AHMAD RECIEVES CONFIDENCE BOOST
Ahmad Sharbini finally looks likely to get his chance in peak season, after Hajduk Split dismissed the possibility of signing Zagreb's Ivan Krstanovic. After enquiring on the Bosnian forward Hajduk decided the fee would be a waste of money for a player who may possibly not give them more than ex Rijeka star Ahmad.On the face of it, Hajduk's squad still looks lightweight without the transferred Senijad Ibricic and Ivan Strinic, but offers opportunities to a number of promising youngsters such as Marin Ljubicic, Mario Maloca, Marin Tomasov, Mirko Oremus and Dinko Trebotic to prove their worth. Mario Ticinovic is also likely to receive playing time, despite a quiet loan spell with Karlovac.
Zagreb themselves have been busy recruiting after Vedran Celjak's sale to Sampdoria. Carlos arrives on loan from Dinamo after successful spell in China with Shandong Leuneg. Another foriegn forward however comes to replace outgoing Albanian Sukaj in the form of Cesena's Franco Ciavarini. Slaven Belupo are also adding depth to their forward line with Tomislav Hajovic signing from Lokomotiva Zagreb.
Saturday, 29 January 2011
CELJAK DEAL HEARTENS ZAGREB
NK Zagreb look to be back in business after negotiating the sale of Croatian Under 19 star Vedran Celjak to Sampdoria for 500,000 Euro's. T
he deal looks set to give Zagreb scope to move in the transfer market having been restricted in the last 12 months. With only HNL2 stars Vedran Celiscak and Krunoslav Rendulic returning fans would not have had much hope for optimism. However Zagreb now have fair wage packages to offer to free agents still on the market.
Zagreb may also have to expect a offer for 9 goal striker Ivan Krstanovic after Hajduk Split struggled to land prime target Mate Bilic. Krstanovic could give much needed depth to Hajduk's forward line. If such a deal is made, Ivan Rodic, Domagoj Abramovic, Miroslav Saric, Ivan Bosnjak and Ilija Sivonjic could all be monitored over the next week. Dario Smoje and Tomislav Labdurovic may also be considered to add strength to the squad which struggled under new coach Luka Pavlovic after making a fine start to the season under Ivo Susak.
he deal looks set to give Zagreb scope to move in the transfer market having been restricted in the last 12 months. With only HNL2 stars Vedran Celiscak and Krunoslav Rendulic returning fans would not have had much hope for optimism. However Zagreb now have fair wage packages to offer to free agents still on the market.Zagreb may also have to expect a offer for 9 goal striker Ivan Krstanovic after Hajduk Split struggled to land prime target Mate Bilic. Krstanovic could give much needed depth to Hajduk's forward line. If such a deal is made, Ivan Rodic, Domagoj Abramovic, Miroslav Saric, Ivan Bosnjak and Ilija Sivonjic could all be monitored over the next week. Dario Smoje and Tomislav Labdurovic may also be considered to add strength to the squad which struggled under new coach Luka Pavlovic after making a fine start to the season under Ivo Susak.
SIVONJIC AND RODIC AVAILABLE
Dinamo Zagreb striker Ilija Sivonjic has found himself back in limbo after Lokomotiva decided not to retain him for the peak season. Instead Loko will turn to Dodo to partner the vastly experienced Nino Bule in attack, with Ivan Peko, Dalibor Pandza and Marko Simic as support.Sivonjic, arguably is in need of a complete change of environment to revive his career. The forward seemed ideally suited to Inter Zapresic where he impressed initially prior to his switch to Dinamo. However Zapresic since signed Aleksandr Trajkovic and Matija Matko who have both performed well and paid out for Albanian Arber Abilijaj. Unless Zapresic can farm out Abilijaj back to Albania then there is currently no room for Sivonjic.
More realistic is NK Zagreb who are light on strikers after realising Xhevahir Sukaj to Vllazina. NK Zagreb could also be a possibility for Ivan Rodic who is looking for a new club after surprisingly being let go by NK Rijeka. Zagreb would also be a realistic surrounding for Ivan Bosnjak or Miroslav Saric who are still without a club after over 6 months.
Friday, 28 January 2011
BELUPO GET THEIR KILLER
Slaven Belupo have made one of the coups of the January transfer window after signing striker Leon Benko. The 27 year old arrives on a free transfer from Kortrijk, having also spent time with Standard Liege and Nuremburg.Benko should take to life easily back in HNL1, having shown enough abroad in stronger leagues to be a notable force. Benko was arguably just what Belupo were missing after Franjo Tepuric and Tomislav Busic failed to impress in the first half of the season. New signing Nikola Frzuljec also has not scored a goal this season. Benko is expected to partner Aljosa Vojinovic in attack with Stjepan Poljak and Goran Mujanovic supplying the creativity.
Meantime, Hajduk Split have ended their interest in Mladen Bartulovic after signing Sikori Briceg left back Josip Barisic. Barisic may have been signed as cover for Goran Jozinovic who could be set to gain his chance. Hajduk fans however may see this as a cheap option and missed chance to reinvest in the side, with other possibilities like Renato Puncec and Marko Babic declined. Mate Bilic's high profile switch from Sporting Gijon also seems to late in the transfer window to go through.
Bilic's Croatian international colleagues Ivan Rakitic and Srdjan Lakic have however made big money deals. Rakitic, who is one of Croatia's hottest talents has joined Sevilla from Schalke for 3m Euro's whilst goalscorer Srdjan Lakic moves across from Kaiserslautern to Wolfsburg. Lakic's switch is likely to leave Kaiserslautern vulnerable in the remainder of the season.
SLEPICKA GETS LOAN CHANCE
Czech forward Miroslav Slepicka is set to gain a break from his unhappy spell with Dinamo Zagreb as will spend the rest of season on loan with Grenther Furth in Germany.Slepicka, 28 arrived two seasons ago, but failed to the net regularly. The former Sparta Prague man however has far from been outplayed by fellow strikers Jakob Sylvestr, Ante Rukavina or Fatos Beciraj in the goalscoring department. However his departure may now open a window of opportunity for Andrej Kramaric and Mario Situm to get some games.
Whilst Slepicka arrives in Feurth, captain Marino Biliskov has left to sign for Ingoltstat. The 34 year old however will be satisfied to obtained the transfer at such a point in his career.
HAJDUK START REINFORCEMENT PLAN
Hajduk Split look set to add experience to their ranks having made their second major sale during the January transfer window recieving in total in the region of 10m Euro's. Following Senijad Ibricic's switch to Lokomotive Moscow, Hajduk want to bring Sporting Gijon's Mate Bilic to partner Ante Vukusic in a two man strike force. With Hajduk's new spending power they should be able to at least acquire Bilic on loan who has shown in switches to Spanish Segunda liga sides his main desire is to play.
Less realistic is Hajduk's pursuit of Mladen Bartulovic, who after reasonable spells in Krivbass and Arsenal Kyiv should be able to obtain a deal in Ukraine or Russia having already served his time as a young player in HNL1. Unlike Bilic, who is 31 Bartolovic is still only 24 and still has a career abroad in front of him. Should Hajduk achieve both transfers however it should recharge the team ahead of peak season.
More realistic purchases seemed to come in the form of ex Croatian internationals who lost their way such as Marko Babic and Jurica Vranjes. Sasa Bjelanovic meantime has gone back to Serie B in Italy with Atalanta.
Less realistic is Hajduk's pursuit of Mladen Bartulovic, who after reasonable spells in Krivbass and Arsenal Kyiv should be able to obtain a deal in Ukraine or Russia having already served his time as a young player in HNL1. Unlike Bilic, who is 31 Bartolovic is still only 24 and still has a career abroad in front of him. Should Hajduk achieve both transfers however it should recharge the team ahead of peak season.
More realistic purchases seemed to come in the form of ex Croatian internationals who lost their way such as Marko Babic and Jurica Vranjes. Sasa Bjelanovic meantime has gone back to Serie B in Italy with Atalanta.
Wednesday, 26 January 2011
BODUL AND KERIC IN LIMBO
Slovan Liberec have sent star striker Andrej Keric to the reserve team after the 24 year old former Cibalia man signed a prelimenary contract with Sparta Prague. Liberec appear frustrated that Keric made a deal which sees Liberec recieves no transfer fee as his contract expires in the summer. Keric scored 6 goals so far this season, building on his 16 goal tally in 2008/09 season which made him the Czech leagues highest scorer. Despite the break, the naturally pacey Keric, should be sufficiently prepared when he moves across to Sparta to team up with Croat defender Manuel Pamic.
Meantime, Darko Bodul has been made available on a free transfer by Ajax after failing to make a league appearence this season. Ajax were not too impressed by Bodul's performance out on loan with Sparta Rotterdam and resultantly signed new forwards leaving him down the pecking order. At 22 however Bodul can still bounce back and may look to the Belgian or Austrian league to revive his fortunes with Ivan Perisic and Nikica Jelavic examples of success to follow.
Elsewhere Dinamo Zagreb's long serving Brazilian full back Etto has signed for Greek club PAOK. The 30 year who holds Croatian citizenship has impressed since arriving back in 2005 clocking over 100 appearences as full back and wingman. Etto was expected to cover at right back if Sime Vrsaljko's move to Arsenal went through, but Dinamo may now turn to Ivan Tomecak leaving a vacancy for Pedro Morales to return to the team on the right wing. Dinamo also may allow Sammir to transfer soon having signed up Mehmad Alispahic, whilst Antun Palic can also cover. There is also question marks over the future of Ilija Sivonjic, who is no longer with Lokomotiva. Instead Dinamo are attempting to persuade Andrej Kramaric to join Loko on loan.
Meantime, Darko Bodul has been made available on a free transfer by Ajax after failing to make a league appearence this season. Ajax were not too impressed by Bodul's performance out on loan with Sparta Rotterdam and resultantly signed new forwards leaving him down the pecking order. At 22 however Bodul can still bounce back and may look to the Belgian or Austrian league to revive his fortunes with Ivan Perisic and Nikica Jelavic examples of success to follow.
Elsewhere Dinamo Zagreb's long serving Brazilian full back Etto has signed for Greek club PAOK. The 30 year who holds Croatian citizenship has impressed since arriving back in 2005 clocking over 100 appearences as full back and wingman. Etto was expected to cover at right back if Sime Vrsaljko's move to Arsenal went through, but Dinamo may now turn to Ivan Tomecak leaving a vacancy for Pedro Morales to return to the team on the right wing. Dinamo also may allow Sammir to transfer soon having signed up Mehmad Alispahic, whilst Antun Palic can also cover. There is also question marks over the future of Ilija Sivonjic, who is no longer with Lokomotiva. Instead Dinamo are attempting to persuade Andrej Kramaric to join Loko on loan.
BABIC OPTION FOLLOWING STRINIC DEAL
Ivan Strinic's surprise switch from Hajduk Split to Ukraine's Dnipro could open the door for Marko Babic to reestablish himself. Babic, 28 is currently a free agent and could prove an attractive signing for Hajduk who are looking for an experienced player having sold Senijad Ibricic and lost Srdjan Andric to injury. Although Hajduk have young defender Goran Jozinovic to cover left back and have recalled Mario Ticinovic, there roster looks on the surface to be too young to remove Dinamo from the top of the table. With Ibricic, gone Dinko Trebotic will step in, but barely has 20 games to his name. In attack Ante Vukusic has lost Ibricic's support and substitute striker at present is equally Duje Cop. Its therefore likely the eratic Anas Sharbini may be asked to play as a forward, with Ticinovic moving across to left wing.A strong left back will therefore be key. Hajduk are however in the business of currently saving there money as shown in their disinterest in recruiting Ivica Krizanac as a 5th centre back. Babic, however has no serious injury and could be an option in a position where they are light. Another ex target Jurica Vranjes, meantime is not likely to be an option unless Werder Bremen release him from the remainder of his contract. Unfortunately for Hajduk, the money for Ibricic and Strinic came to late to make a deal for Sibenik's Mehmad Alispahic who instead moves to Dinamo at the end of the season. Varazdin's Roberto Puncec however still remains available.
KRIZANAC MOVES TO SPLIT
RNK Split have made a surprise coup by signing former Croatian international and Zenit St Petersburg defender Ivica Krizanac. The 32 year old was not believed to be fancied by Hajduk, who put their faith in Jurica Buljat, Mario Maloca with Hjorve Vejic also on the books as cover. Krizanac however is expected to have a big impact around the club at RNK working under Ivan Katilinic.
Ex Hajduk coach Zoran Vulic has also been busy with Istra 1961 signing ex Slaven Belupo forward Mario Juric. The 34 year old has missed six months of football, but may add some experience. Bosko Stupic has been allowed to leave, whilst Eliomar, Edin Hadzic and Armend Alimi have been given another chance to prove themselves. Franjo Tepuric however is expected to start in attack with Asim Sehic.
Belupo themselves look to be heavily reliant on Aljosa Vojinovic after allowing Tepuric and more notably Mateas Delic to transfer. Similarly Rijeka will be placing trust in Radomir Dalovic, having released 4 goal Ivan Rodic. On the surface allowing proven HNL1 player like Rodic to go in order to purchase Sergio Zijler signifies financial stress. Rodic may surface in Croatia and may in fact be a target for Belupo, who are also questionably putting there hopes in Nikola Frzuljec who failed to score in the first half of the season for Dragovoljac.
No news in Varazdin, although Gordan Golik and Srebenko Posavec could still sign to cover for midfield hole left by the sale of Josip Brezovec. Ex Varazdin player Leon Benko was also up for sale on a free, but it appears neither Rijeka or Slaven Belupo who would normally be in for such a player have the wage package to offer him. Such restrictions would also explain why Ivan Bosnjak also continues to sit on the sidelines. However at 24, Miroslav Saric needs to suit up to a new club soon after failing to gain a proposition abroad.
At Lokomotiva, Dodo arrives to add weight to a forward line which should be sufficient for HNL1. Nino Bule continues to find the net and is rightly first choice with Dodo now joining Ilija Sivonjic and Marko Simic. With Domogoj Antolic, Tomislav Martinac and Ivan Peko in midfield Loko should also have sufficient creativity. With Almir Bekic gone, Croatia Under 21 star Arjan Ademi has been rumoured to arrive as Dinamo Zagreb coach Vaha Halilhodzic prefers Adrian Callelo, Brezovec and Matias Chago at the present moment in time.
Coming back to Dinamo, Zdravko Mamic could be set to embark on yet another high profile transfer with ex Lokomotiva defender Sime Vrsaljko wanted by Arsenal. Olympic Lyon and Croatia centre back Dejan Lovren also could be off to Fenerbahce. Meanwhile, Inter Zapresic coach Ilija Loncarevic is taking it easy after seeing his team go from the bottom three in the division to a top 5 place in the matter of a couple of months. Despite Antun Palic's transfer to Dinamo, Loncarevic's team were mainly bolstered by the return of Mario Grgurovic.
Ex Hajduk coach Zoran Vulic has also been busy with Istra 1961 signing ex Slaven Belupo forward Mario Juric. The 34 year old has missed six months of football, but may add some experience. Bosko Stupic has been allowed to leave, whilst Eliomar, Edin Hadzic and Armend Alimi have been given another chance to prove themselves. Franjo Tepuric however is expected to start in attack with Asim Sehic.
Belupo themselves look to be heavily reliant on Aljosa Vojinovic after allowing Tepuric and more notably Mateas Delic to transfer. Similarly Rijeka will be placing trust in Radomir Dalovic, having released 4 goal Ivan Rodic. On the surface allowing proven HNL1 player like Rodic to go in order to purchase Sergio Zijler signifies financial stress. Rodic may surface in Croatia and may in fact be a target for Belupo, who are also questionably putting there hopes in Nikola Frzuljec who failed to score in the first half of the season for Dragovoljac.
No news in Varazdin, although Gordan Golik and Srebenko Posavec could still sign to cover for midfield hole left by the sale of Josip Brezovec. Ex Varazdin player Leon Benko was also up for sale on a free, but it appears neither Rijeka or Slaven Belupo who would normally be in for such a player have the wage package to offer him. Such restrictions would also explain why Ivan Bosnjak also continues to sit on the sidelines. However at 24, Miroslav Saric needs to suit up to a new club soon after failing to gain a proposition abroad.
At Lokomotiva, Dodo arrives to add weight to a forward line which should be sufficient for HNL1. Nino Bule continues to find the net and is rightly first choice with Dodo now joining Ilija Sivonjic and Marko Simic. With Domogoj Antolic, Tomislav Martinac and Ivan Peko in midfield Loko should also have sufficient creativity. With Almir Bekic gone, Croatia Under 21 star Arjan Ademi has been rumoured to arrive as Dinamo Zagreb coach Vaha Halilhodzic prefers Adrian Callelo, Brezovec and Matias Chago at the present moment in time.
Coming back to Dinamo, Zdravko Mamic could be set to embark on yet another high profile transfer with ex Lokomotiva defender Sime Vrsaljko wanted by Arsenal. Olympic Lyon and Croatia centre back Dejan Lovren also could be off to Fenerbahce. Meanwhile, Inter Zapresic coach Ilija Loncarevic is taking it easy after seeing his team go from the bottom three in the division to a top 5 place in the matter of a couple of months. Despite Antun Palic's transfer to Dinamo, Loncarevic's team were mainly bolstered by the return of Mario Grgurovic.
Sunday, 23 January 2011
BILIC AND KLASNIC UNDER THREAT
Croatian internationals Mate Bilic and Ivan Klasnic could be set to be frozen out by Slaven Bilic if they are unable to find form in the second half of the campaign. Bilic, 30 and Klasnic soon to be 31 have struggled to find a starting place with Sporting Gijon and Bolton Wanderers respectively. For Bilic, the Premira Liga is a unforgiving league and Gijon who have worked magic with the aid of Bilic in last two seasons, look this campaign to be finding survival from relegation just that little bit harder. At 30 Spain may no longer be the place for Bilic to be and moves out to Turkey, France or even a loan move back to Hajduk Split seems his major hope of resalvaging his national team jersey. A huge shame for a player who showed immediate promise with 3 goals in just 5 games.As for Klasnic, he is yet to be handed a Premier League start at Bolton Wanderers and it appears his one touch strikes to snatch important points such as at Everton and Stoke City may no longer do it for Manager Owen Coyle, who has his eye on Mexican talent Carlos Vela. With Arsene Wenger satisfied with Coyle's work with Jack Wilkshere a loan deal for Vela looks highly likely. Meantime Johann Elmander and Kevin Davies continue to keep Klasnic out and he may see little chance for the remainder of the reason. Klasnic does have interest from St Pauli, a club with personal meaning to him, but like many Croatian players whether Klasnic can forsake his Bolton contract is another matter. Whilst Klasnic is out of the picture its unlikely he'll feature for Croatia.
There is more positive news on Nikola Kalinic, who looks set to feature regularly under new Blackburn Rovers coach Steve Keen. Having scored against Malta it appears Kalinic will get the nod over Klasnic and Mate Bilic. At 21 Kalinic has more running power and may get more time than when he was featuring somewhat bizarre on Slaven Bilic's squad lists two seasons ago.
Disappointingly however Daniel Cesarec of Aris Salonika, Ante Rukavina of Dinamo Zagreb and to a lesser extent Mario Budimir of Ethnikos and Slovan Liberec's Andrej Keric have not found the neccessary form to challenge for a place. Mario Gavranovic also is out of the picture at Schalke. One name however to keep an eye on is Hoffenheim's Boris Vuckcevic.
STARS OF 2010/ 11
LUKA MODRIC
The diminitive playmaker of Tottenham Hotspur needs little introduction these days, but this season Modric has finally proven himself a class act in his rightful position in central midfield in arguably the most physical league in the world. Modric has been showing some classy moments in supply to Aoran Lennon, Gareth Bale and Rafael Van Der Vaart this season which has made Spurs one of England's most watchable sides. In keeping with his character, Modric still only 25 refuses to get carried away and is signed to a long term contract.
SRDJAN LAKIC
Lakic is a lesson for any young Croatian that leaves the domestic league early and finds his first season hard going that he can bounce back. Lakic had a unnoteworthy first season in Hertha Berlin after being signed from Kamen Ingrad. However a impressive spell out on loan at unfancied Dutch side Heracles did Lakic the world of good and he was snapped up by Kaiserslautern. Now in his third successful season with them he has been taking the Bundesliga by storm with 18 goals in 20 games in all competitions only half way into the campaign. For Croatia Lakic's arrival brings a new dimension to the forward line with a player of his kind having not been seen since Dado Prso and Tomislav Maric retired from the game. Arguably with such playmakers and crossers as Daniel Pranjic, Mladen Petric, Eduardo, Dario Srna, Niko Kranjcar, Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric a player like Lakic (plus Jelavic) with ariel prowess was the missing ingrediant. Lakic's teammate Ivo Ilicevic has also had a fine season and has edged in front of Drago Gabric to gain a place in the squad.
TOMISLAV PULJIC
A player who would have gone unnoticed by many in Croatia is Tomislav Puljic who has been highly successful since his switch from Lokomotiva to FC Luzern. The only surprising thing is how this 27 year old with experience escaped the attention of Dinamo Zagreb. Puljic is a outright first choice centre back for the league leaders and has also contributed 3 goals in his 18 games so far. Puljic had been set to sign for Karlovac, but will be glad to have changed his mind as looks to have a career ahead of him abroad.
MARIO BARIC
The price tag and stature of right sided defender Mario Baric has absolutely rocked in the last 12 months having firstly impressed at Karlovac leading to his switch to Belgian side AA Gent for a mere £264,000. 22 games on with appearences in the Europa Liga Baric is a important part of Gent who are currently placed 4th and now have Baric rated as a one million pound player. Baric is now 25, but looks set to join the likes of Ivan Leko and Tomislav Mikulic in forging a decent career for himself in Western Europe.
IVAN LEKO
Leko himself has been in impressive form this season, somewhat surprisingly at the age of 32. The Lokeron man has 5 goals and 6 assists and this may indicate this could be the man to stabilise Hajduk following Senijad Ibricic's departure. However Leko is not going to want to leave Belgium whilst still in this kind of form and has a contract till 2013.
DARIO SRNA
With still a year left on his contract at Shakthar Donetsk, the Croatian international star is still giving it his all to the Ukrainian club who are topping their domestic league and reached the last 16 of the Champions League coming up ahead of Arsenal in their group. For so long now it would be hard to think of there not being a Shakhtar Donetsk which continuously attacked down the wings through Dario Srna and Ravtzan Rat going on to feed the majestic Brazilians Jadson, Fernandiniho and Wilian. For Srna there is no real need to move. Whilst many Croatians have tried bigger clubs and leagues only to fall from grace, Srna has guarenteed himself 30 plus matches a season and is Croatia's second highest all time scorer to boot from his position on the right midfield. At 29, approaching 30 years of age next year, Srna may allow himself one last chance at a stronger league in Italy, England, Germany or Spain having little to lose. However only a Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Milan type club is likely to entice him.
IVAN PERISIC
It seems ridiculous how long Croatian Under 21 coach Drazen Ladic took to notice this exciting young attacking midfielder who compares in playing style to Mikael Ballack and Frank Lampard. Perisic is already a huge talent and is now in the second outstanding season in Belgium and is being cited by Everton as a replacement for Steven Pienaar. However agreeing a fee for a midfielder who scored 12 goals in half the season already and is contracted till 2015 will prove difficult. Bruges may be kind and let the player go for around 6m, but could be grossly undervalued in the long run. For Croatia, Perisic is currently a player Slaven Bilic insists on wasting and which indicates to the negative side of the HNS that many fans find distasteful that a misfiring Mario Mandzukic and struggling Dinamo Zagreb prospect Milan Badelj could ever be considered to be playing better than Perisic at the moment. Adding Perisic who can play in attack and midfield to a squad featuring the already proven Kranjcar, Rakitic, Srna, Pranjic and Modric is exciting for many Croatia fans. With Jelavic and Lakic, also joining the likes of Ivica Olic, Mladen Petric, Eduardo and Nikola Kalinic as options in attack the whole position in the Croatia National Team looks brighter.
The diminitive playmaker of Tottenham Hotspur needs little introduction these days, but this season Modric has finally proven himself a class act in his rightful position in central midfield in arguably the most physical league in the world. Modric has been showing some classy moments in supply to Aoran Lennon, Gareth Bale and Rafael Van Der Vaart this season which has made Spurs one of England's most watchable sides. In keeping with his character, Modric still only 25 refuses to get carried away and is signed to a long term contract.
SRDJAN LAKIC
Lakic is a lesson for any young Croatian that leaves the domestic league early and finds his first season hard going that he can bounce back. Lakic had a unnoteworthy first season in Hertha Berlin after being signed from Kamen Ingrad. However a impressive spell out on loan at unfancied Dutch side Heracles did Lakic the world of good and he was snapped up by Kaiserslautern. Now in his third successful season with them he has been taking the Bundesliga by storm with 18 goals in 20 games in all competitions only half way into the campaign. For Croatia Lakic's arrival brings a new dimension to the forward line with a player of his kind having not been seen since Dado Prso and Tomislav Maric retired from the game. Arguably with such playmakers and crossers as Daniel Pranjic, Mladen Petric, Eduardo, Dario Srna, Niko Kranjcar, Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric a player like Lakic (plus Jelavic) with ariel prowess was the missing ingrediant. Lakic's teammate Ivo Ilicevic has also had a fine season and has edged in front of Drago Gabric to gain a place in the squad.
TOMISLAV PULJIC
A player who would have gone unnoticed by many in Croatia is Tomislav Puljic who has been highly successful since his switch from Lokomotiva to FC Luzern. The only surprising thing is how this 27 year old with experience escaped the attention of Dinamo Zagreb. Puljic is a outright first choice centre back for the league leaders and has also contributed 3 goals in his 18 games so far. Puljic had been set to sign for Karlovac, but will be glad to have changed his mind as looks to have a career ahead of him abroad.
MARIO BARIC
The price tag and stature of right sided defender Mario Baric has absolutely rocked in the last 12 months having firstly impressed at Karlovac leading to his switch to Belgian side AA Gent for a mere £264,000. 22 games on with appearences in the Europa Liga Baric is a important part of Gent who are currently placed 4th and now have Baric rated as a one million pound player. Baric is now 25, but looks set to join the likes of Ivan Leko and Tomislav Mikulic in forging a decent career for himself in Western Europe.
IVAN LEKO
Leko himself has been in impressive form this season, somewhat surprisingly at the age of 32. The Lokeron man has 5 goals and 6 assists and this may indicate this could be the man to stabilise Hajduk following Senijad Ibricic's departure. However Leko is not going to want to leave Belgium whilst still in this kind of form and has a contract till 2013.
DARIO SRNA
With still a year left on his contract at Shakthar Donetsk, the Croatian international star is still giving it his all to the Ukrainian club who are topping their domestic league and reached the last 16 of the Champions League coming up ahead of Arsenal in their group. For so long now it would be hard to think of there not being a Shakhtar Donetsk which continuously attacked down the wings through Dario Srna and Ravtzan Rat going on to feed the majestic Brazilians Jadson, Fernandiniho and Wilian. For Srna there is no real need to move. Whilst many Croatians have tried bigger clubs and leagues only to fall from grace, Srna has guarenteed himself 30 plus matches a season and is Croatia's second highest all time scorer to boot from his position on the right midfield. At 29, approaching 30 years of age next year, Srna may allow himself one last chance at a stronger league in Italy, England, Germany or Spain having little to lose. However only a Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Milan type club is likely to entice him.
IVAN PERISIC
It seems ridiculous how long Croatian Under 21 coach Drazen Ladic took to notice this exciting young attacking midfielder who compares in playing style to Mikael Ballack and Frank Lampard. Perisic is already a huge talent and is now in the second outstanding season in Belgium and is being cited by Everton as a replacement for Steven Pienaar. However agreeing a fee for a midfielder who scored 12 goals in half the season already and is contracted till 2015 will prove difficult. Bruges may be kind and let the player go for around 6m, but could be grossly undervalued in the long run. For Croatia, Perisic is currently a player Slaven Bilic insists on wasting and which indicates to the negative side of the HNS that many fans find distasteful that a misfiring Mario Mandzukic and struggling Dinamo Zagreb prospect Milan Badelj could ever be considered to be playing better than Perisic at the moment. Adding Perisic who can play in attack and midfield to a squad featuring the already proven Kranjcar, Rakitic, Srna, Pranjic and Modric is exciting for many Croatia fans. With Jelavic and Lakic, also joining the likes of Ivica Olic, Mladen Petric, Eduardo and Nikola Kalinic as options in attack the whole position in the Croatia National Team looks brighter.
HAJDUK TO GO WITH YOUNGSTERS
Hajduk Split look set to retain the money recieved from the sale of Bosnia Herzegovina international playmaker Senijad Ibricic and put their faith in youth. Dinko Trebotic has been highlighted as the likely successor to Ibricic, whilst Mario Ticinovic has also been recalled from his loan at Karlovac and is expected to challenge Trebotic and Anas Sharbini for a starting place. Should the scheme fail Srdjan Andric may be pushed forward to supply the creativity with Mario Brkljaca, Erwin Bulku and first choice Marin Ljubicic able to cover the defensive midfield slot.
In attack Hajduk still seem satisfied with the performance of 19 year old Croatia Under 21 international striker Ante Vukusic to lead the line alone, with Duje Cop in support. Ahmad Sharbini whilst being linked with Istra 1961 should still see opportunities following Ibricic's departure to Lokomotiva Moscow. Hajduk could take chances on spending some of the Ibricic money to bring Mate Bilic from Sporting Gijon or Ivica Krizanac on a free transfer after issueing a come and get me plea after ending a hugely successful spell with Zenit St Petersburg. However Krizanac could only come if he can prove he is fit to play the majority of the games or if Legia Warsaw step up their interest in Jurica Buljat. At present however Hajduk seem happy to leave Buljat and Mario Maloca as their defensive pairing with Matej Jonjic and Hjorve Vejic as cover. Financially Hajduk may play safe with at least second place highly likely, when players such as former target Jurica Vranjes will also be cheaper to purchase.
In attack Hajduk still seem satisfied with the performance of 19 year old Croatia Under 21 international striker Ante Vukusic to lead the line alone, with Duje Cop in support. Ahmad Sharbini whilst being linked with Istra 1961 should still see opportunities following Ibricic's departure to Lokomotiva Moscow. Hajduk could take chances on spending some of the Ibricic money to bring Mate Bilic from Sporting Gijon or Ivica Krizanac on a free transfer after issueing a come and get me plea after ending a hugely successful spell with Zenit St Petersburg. However Krizanac could only come if he can prove he is fit to play the majority of the games or if Legia Warsaw step up their interest in Jurica Buljat. At present however Hajduk seem happy to leave Buljat and Mario Maloca as their defensive pairing with Matej Jonjic and Hjorve Vejic as cover. Financially Hajduk may play safe with at least second place highly likely, when players such as former target Jurica Vranjes will also be cheaper to purchase.
Saturday, 22 January 2011
STILL IN THE BAG
MIROSLAV SARIC
Miroslav Saric enjoyed a productive goalscoring season last campaign with Inter Zapresic. However his form drifted in Spring, leading Zapresic to return him to Dinamo and he is now a free agent. Saric, had an unsuccessful trial with Bucaspor, but could find himself back in HNL1 with Cibalia, Istra Pula and Zagreb all looking for creative forwards.
IVAN BOSNJAK
Former Croatia international Ivan Bosnjak would appear the biggest free agent coup for HNL1 sides looking for a new forward. Bosnjak was highly successful with Dinamo Zagreb, Hajduk Split and Cibalia before moving abroad with Racing Genk.
His last two seasons with Genk and Irakilis however were disappointing and although he is likely to be in demand in Croatia he will need to prove his fitness. Fortunately for the 31 year old HNL1 is not the most physically intense league on the continenent. Aging stalwarts as Tomislav Erceg, Robert Spehar, Davor Vugrinec, Nino Bule and Zjelko Sopic also enjoyed successful spells in the latter part of their careers in Croatia and there is no reason why Bosnjak can't follow in similar fashion. It is unlikely Hajduk would sign Bosnjak due to the players history with Dinamo Zagreb. However a deal with Dinamo is not out the question, although Rijeka, Istra Pula and former team Cibalia may be more likelier destinations.
IVAN RODIC
After a fairly promising first half of the season at Rijeka, it was surprising the Kantrida based club allowed striker Rodic to go free. Rodic appeared able support to Radomir Dalovic, but Rijeka seemed unable to afford the players wages and instead will turn to Vedran Gerc and Sandi Krizman. Rodic netted 4 times in his short spell at Rijeka, building on the reputation he made whilst with Sibenik. Sibenik would love to have there former player back, especially with Mehmad Alispahic on his way to Dinamo at the end of the season. Rodic however may search for an engagement abroad, whilst Slaven Belupo may also be looking.
GORDAN GOLIK
Former Varazdin player Gordan Golik is available on a free transfer after being released by Lech Poznan. Golik made 81 appearences for Varazdin before being signed by the Polish club for around 300,000 Euro's. However he has rarely been used in Poland and was made available at the start of August.
MARKO MARIC
Maric, 27 plays in central midfield and could return to HNL1 after a disappointing last three seasons in which he played just 5 matches for Lille, scoring 1 goal and 4 matches at Skoda Xanthi before being released. Maric made something of a reputation for himself in Greece at Egaeleo which earned him a move to France. Offers in Greece may now be few and far between and so the former Zagreb player looks likely to return to Croatia.
MARKO BABIC
It appears strange how Babic, a player with 49 caps for Croatia and experience in the Champions league with Bayer Leverkusen can remain a free agent for too long. Following his performances at the 2006 World Cup it was hard to forsee this, however Babic didn't impressed at Real Betis, Hertha Berlin or Real Zaragoza and needs to drop his level to a suitably sized club where he will play. Babic's inactivity has been a lost option for Croatia for whom he had regularly given a good account of himself.
Miroslav Saric enjoyed a productive goalscoring season last campaign with Inter Zapresic. However his form drifted in Spring, leading Zapresic to return him to Dinamo and he is now a free agent. Saric, had an unsuccessful trial with Bucaspor, but could find himself back in HNL1 with Cibalia, Istra Pula and Zagreb all looking for creative forwards.
IVAN BOSNJAK
Former Croatia international Ivan Bosnjak would appear the biggest free agent coup for HNL1 sides looking for a new forward. Bosnjak was highly successful with Dinamo Zagreb, Hajduk Split and Cibalia before moving abroad with Racing Genk.
His last two seasons with Genk and Irakilis however were disappointing and although he is likely to be in demand in Croatia he will need to prove his fitness. Fortunately for the 31 year old HNL1 is not the most physically intense league on the continenent. Aging stalwarts as Tomislav Erceg, Robert Spehar, Davor Vugrinec, Nino Bule and Zjelko Sopic also enjoyed successful spells in the latter part of their careers in Croatia and there is no reason why Bosnjak can't follow in similar fashion. It is unlikely Hajduk would sign Bosnjak due to the players history with Dinamo Zagreb. However a deal with Dinamo is not out the question, although Rijeka, Istra Pula and former team Cibalia may be more likelier destinations.
IVAN RODIC
After a fairly promising first half of the season at Rijeka, it was surprising the Kantrida based club allowed striker Rodic to go free. Rodic appeared able support to Radomir Dalovic, but Rijeka seemed unable to afford the players wages and instead will turn to Vedran Gerc and Sandi Krizman. Rodic netted 4 times in his short spell at Rijeka, building on the reputation he made whilst with Sibenik. Sibenik would love to have there former player back, especially with Mehmad Alispahic on his way to Dinamo at the end of the season. Rodic however may search for an engagement abroad, whilst Slaven Belupo may also be looking.
GORDAN GOLIK
Former Varazdin player Gordan Golik is available on a free transfer after being released by Lech Poznan. Golik made 81 appearences for Varazdin before being signed by the Polish club for around 300,000 Euro's. However he has rarely been used in Poland and was made available at the start of August.
MARKO MARIC
Maric, 27 plays in central midfield and could return to HNL1 after a disappointing last three seasons in which he played just 5 matches for Lille, scoring 1 goal and 4 matches at Skoda Xanthi before being released. Maric made something of a reputation for himself in Greece at Egaeleo which earned him a move to France. Offers in Greece may now be few and far between and so the former Zagreb player looks likely to return to Croatia.
MARKO BABIC
It appears strange how Babic, a player with 49 caps for Croatia and experience in the Champions league with Bayer Leverkusen can remain a free agent for too long. Following his performances at the 2006 World Cup it was hard to forsee this, however Babic didn't impressed at Real Betis, Hertha Berlin or Real Zaragoza and needs to drop his level to a suitably sized club where he will play. Babic's inactivity has been a lost option for Croatia for whom he had regularly given a good account of himself.
HNL1 WINTER TRANSFERS
RIJEKA
IN: Milan Duricic (Buducnost), Sergio Zijler
OUT: Ivan Rodic, Miroslav Karoglan (Armed Forces), Mikael Yourrawsky
KARLOVAC
IN: Marijan Budimir (Zapresic)
OUT: Mario Ticinovic (Hajduk Split), Goran Juros (Weitz)
NK ZAGREB
IN: Krunoslav Rendulic (Lucko), Vedran Celiscak (Medimurje), Neven Markovic (Kerkya), Carlos (Dinamo)
OUT: Zhevahir Sukaj (Vllazina), Josip Mikulic (Chicago Fire), Dino Stiglec (Lucko), Vedran Celjak (Sampdoria)
ZADAR
IN: Jakov Surac, Marin Alexon (Hajduk)
OUT: Ferdo Milin (Retired)
SLAVEN BELUPO
In: Nikola Frluzjec (Dragovoljac), Leon Benko (Kortrijk), Tomislav Hajovic (Lokomotiva)
Out: Francis Tepulic (Istra 1961), Goran Bulic (Slatina), Mateas Delic (Gangwon), Tomislav Labudurovic, Filip Marcic (RNK Split)
ISTRA PULA 1961
In: Franjo Tepulic (Belupo), Julio Barrabes, Dario Puric (Steel), Mario Juric (Slaven Belupo), Mirko Plantic (Sesvete), Igor Weitzer (Sikori Briceg)
Out: Marijan Markovic (First Vienna), Gjerj Bushaj, Bosko Stupcic, Igor Zurzinov
NK CIBALIA
OUT: Boris Leutar (Retired)
DINAMO ZAGREB
IN: Antun Palic (Zapresic), Josip Brezovec (Varazdin)
OUT: Dodo (Lokomotiva), Igor Vidakovic (Dragovoljac), Etto (PAOK), Miroslav Slepicka (Feurth), Carlos (Zagreb)
HAJDUK SPLIT
IN: Mario Ticinovic (Karlovac), Mario Sacer (Varazdin)
OUT: Tonci Kukoc (Dragovoljac), Senijad Ibricic (Lokomotiv Moscow), Leo Novak (NK Zagreb), Marin Alexon (Zadar), Ivan Strinic (Dnipro)
HRVATSKI DRAGOVOLJAC
IN: Igor Vidakovic (Dinamo), Tonci Kukoc (Hajduk)
OUT: Alen Mesanovic (Sloboda Tuzla), Nikola Frzuljec (Slaven Belupo), Leopold Novak (Hajduk), Plumb Jusufi (Gorica)
INTER ZAPRESIC
IN: Ante Budimir (Gorica), Ivan Mrsic & Mirko Kramaric (Lokomotiva), Tomislav Ivankovic (Brdovec)
OUT: Antun Palic (Dinamo), Nenad Nikolic, Mario Sopic
LOKOMOTIVA
IN: Dodo (Dinamo), Walid Atta (AIK), Lamin Sametah (Steve Biko)
OUT: Ivan Mrsic (Zapresic), Almir Bekic (Sloboda Tuzla), Ilija Sivonjic, Tomislav Hajovic (Belupo)
OSIJEK
IN: Mark Leskovic (Suhopolje)
OUT: Sasa Novakovic & Toni Kacunic (Crikvenica), Peter Stojkic, Vedran Niksic (Gyor)
RNK SPLIT
IN: Filip Marcic (Slaven Belupo), Ante Capin (Imotski), Ivica Krizanac (Zenit)
OUT: Petar Simic, Dalibor Mandaric (Imotski), Ivan Muslin (Solin), Qeremi Shpat
VARAZDIN
IN: Srebrenko Posavec (Slaven Belupo), Antonio Asanovic (Hajduk), Matias Zubak (Sesvete)
OUT: Josip Brezovec (Dinamo), Mario Sacer (Hajduk), Stjepan Kokot & Dario Suntesic (Medimurje), Matija Katanec (Baumgarten)
HNK SIBENIK
IN: Dario Kristo (Omis), Marko Culic (Junak)
IN: Milan Duricic (Buducnost), Sergio Zijler
OUT: Ivan Rodic, Miroslav Karoglan (Armed Forces), Mikael Yourrawsky
KARLOVAC
IN: Marijan Budimir (Zapresic)
OUT: Mario Ticinovic (Hajduk Split), Goran Juros (Weitz)
NK ZAGREB
IN: Krunoslav Rendulic (Lucko), Vedran Celiscak (Medimurje), Neven Markovic (Kerkya), Carlos (Dinamo)
OUT: Zhevahir Sukaj (Vllazina), Josip Mikulic (Chicago Fire), Dino Stiglec (Lucko), Vedran Celjak (Sampdoria)
ZADAR
IN: Jakov Surac, Marin Alexon (Hajduk)
OUT: Ferdo Milin (Retired)
SLAVEN BELUPO
In: Nikola Frluzjec (Dragovoljac), Leon Benko (Kortrijk), Tomislav Hajovic (Lokomotiva)
Out: Francis Tepulic (Istra 1961), Goran Bulic (Slatina), Mateas Delic (Gangwon), Tomislav Labudurovic, Filip Marcic (RNK Split)
ISTRA PULA 1961
In: Franjo Tepulic (Belupo), Julio Barrabes, Dario Puric (Steel), Mario Juric (Slaven Belupo), Mirko Plantic (Sesvete), Igor Weitzer (Sikori Briceg)
Out: Marijan Markovic (First Vienna), Gjerj Bushaj, Bosko Stupcic, Igor Zurzinov
NK CIBALIA
OUT: Boris Leutar (Retired)
DINAMO ZAGREB
IN: Antun Palic (Zapresic), Josip Brezovec (Varazdin)
OUT: Dodo (Lokomotiva), Igor Vidakovic (Dragovoljac), Etto (PAOK), Miroslav Slepicka (Feurth), Carlos (Zagreb)
HAJDUK SPLIT
IN: Mario Ticinovic (Karlovac), Mario Sacer (Varazdin)
OUT: Tonci Kukoc (Dragovoljac), Senijad Ibricic (Lokomotiv Moscow), Leo Novak (NK Zagreb), Marin Alexon (Zadar), Ivan Strinic (Dnipro)
HRVATSKI DRAGOVOLJAC
IN: Igor Vidakovic (Dinamo), Tonci Kukoc (Hajduk)
OUT: Alen Mesanovic (Sloboda Tuzla), Nikola Frzuljec (Slaven Belupo), Leopold Novak (Hajduk), Plumb Jusufi (Gorica)
INTER ZAPRESIC
IN: Ante Budimir (Gorica), Ivan Mrsic & Mirko Kramaric (Lokomotiva), Tomislav Ivankovic (Brdovec)
OUT: Antun Palic (Dinamo), Nenad Nikolic, Mario Sopic
LOKOMOTIVA
IN: Dodo (Dinamo), Walid Atta (AIK), Lamin Sametah (Steve Biko)
OUT: Ivan Mrsic (Zapresic), Almir Bekic (Sloboda Tuzla), Ilija Sivonjic, Tomislav Hajovic (Belupo)
OSIJEK
IN: Mark Leskovic (Suhopolje)
OUT: Sasa Novakovic & Toni Kacunic (Crikvenica), Peter Stojkic, Vedran Niksic (Gyor)
RNK SPLIT
IN: Filip Marcic (Slaven Belupo), Ante Capin (Imotski), Ivica Krizanac (Zenit)
OUT: Petar Simic, Dalibor Mandaric (Imotski), Ivan Muslin (Solin), Qeremi Shpat
VARAZDIN
IN: Srebrenko Posavec (Slaven Belupo), Antonio Asanovic (Hajduk), Matias Zubak (Sesvete)
OUT: Josip Brezovec (Dinamo), Mario Sacer (Hajduk), Stjepan Kokot & Dario Suntesic (Medimurje), Matija Katanec (Baumgarten)
HNK SIBENIK
IN: Dario Kristo (Omis), Marko Culic (Junak)
Thursday, 6 January 2011
BANOVIC FIRST TO MOVE
SC Freiburg midfielder Ivica Banovic will continue his career with SV Duisburg after agreeing a switch last week. Banovic has enjoyed a successful career to date in Germany playing his football with Werder Bremen, Nuremburg, before guiding Frieburg to promotion. At 30 years of age, Banovic will be satisfied to still be attracting competitive German clubs which opportunities of promotion.
Banovic, will be joined in Bundesliga 2 by Josip Tadic, who needs to rebuild his career at Arminia Bielfeld after a poor spell in France with Grenoble. Mario Gavranovic also looks set for a Germany switch going from Schalke to St Pauli, however this deal is yet to be completed. In Holland Dario Vuckcevic will play the remainder of the season with Venlo after failing to establish himself at FC Twente.
Free agents Marko Babic and Dino Drpic will also need to suit up to a new club as soon as possible. Drpic at present is closest to a new employer after interest from Greek club AEK Athens. Ajax's Darko Bodul also requires some football, whilst Werder Bremen also will like to see the back of defensive midfielder Jurica Vranjes.
Banovic, will be joined in Bundesliga 2 by Josip Tadic, who needs to rebuild his career at Arminia Bielfeld after a poor spell in France with Grenoble. Mario Gavranovic also looks set for a Germany switch going from Schalke to St Pauli, however this deal is yet to be completed. In Holland Dario Vuckcevic will play the remainder of the season with Venlo after failing to establish himself at FC Twente.
Free agents Marko Babic and Dino Drpic will also need to suit up to a new club as soon as possible. Drpic at present is closest to a new employer after interest from Greek club AEK Athens. Ajax's Darko Bodul also requires some football, whilst Werder Bremen also will like to see the back of defensive midfielder Jurica Vranjes.
Wednesday, 5 January 2011
DINAMO CONTINUE COLLECTING PLAYERS
Dinamo coach Vahid Halilhodizic is guarenteed to be never short of options after the club bought a series of new players in December. Josip Brezovec arrives from Varazdin most likely to deputise for the injured Matias Chago. Brezovec however still has a fight to displace Arjan Ademi and Adrian Callelo in order to see any playing time. Similarly Antun Palic, who joins from Inter Zapresic must battle with Milan Badelj, Sammir and Pedro Morales for a space in the squad. Mateo Kovacic and Mario Situm were also brought up from the youth system. Should Sibenik also allow Mehmed Alispahic to sign up, Dinamo however may consider transferring Sammir or Badelj, but neither are likely to go for less than 8m Euro's.
In order to replace Brezovec, Varazdin may turn to their former player Gordan Golik who is still only 25 and available on a free transfer. Srebrenko Posavec has also been training with the club and may now be signed up to a contract. Slaven Belupo and Rijeka may also be hunting for new players. Belupo agreed a deal worth 2m Euro's for star forward Mateas Delic to join Gangwon in South Korea. Meantime Amkar Perm and Sheffield Wednesday are preparing a deal to sign Rijeka's Montenegro international striker Radomir Dalovic.
It would the third occasion Dalovic would have left Croatia to move abroad, but would open the door for Rijeka to attempt to re-sign Ahmad Sharbini from Rijeka. Bnei Sahknin's Dario Zahora could also become a target although he is currently under contract. Former Dinamo Zagreb player Ivan Bosnjak is still looking for a club which may interest Belupo or Rijeka, whilst Leon Benko may also be closing under the microscope having just been released from Kortrijk.
Many in demand HNL1 forwards may require transfer fees. Cibalia's Dino Kresinger and Mladen Bartolovic have enjoyed excellant seasons, whilst HNK Split have also been satisfied with the work of Romano Oblinovic and Bojan Golubovic. Another forward on the look out for a move is Dinamo's Brazilian striker Dodo who would welcome a switch to another HNL1 side such as Slaven Belupo or in form Inter Zapresic.
In order to replace Brezovec, Varazdin may turn to their former player Gordan Golik who is still only 25 and available on a free transfer. Srebrenko Posavec has also been training with the club and may now be signed up to a contract. Slaven Belupo and Rijeka may also be hunting for new players. Belupo agreed a deal worth 2m Euro's for star forward Mateas Delic to join Gangwon in South Korea. Meantime Amkar Perm and Sheffield Wednesday are preparing a deal to sign Rijeka's Montenegro international striker Radomir Dalovic.
It would the third occasion Dalovic would have left Croatia to move abroad, but would open the door for Rijeka to attempt to re-sign Ahmad Sharbini from Rijeka. Bnei Sahknin's Dario Zahora could also become a target although he is currently under contract. Former Dinamo Zagreb player Ivan Bosnjak is still looking for a club which may interest Belupo or Rijeka, whilst Leon Benko may also be closing under the microscope having just been released from Kortrijk.
Many in demand HNL1 forwards may require transfer fees. Cibalia's Dino Kresinger and Mladen Bartolovic have enjoyed excellant seasons, whilst HNK Split have also been satisfied with the work of Romano Oblinovic and Bojan Golubovic. Another forward on the look out for a move is Dinamo's Brazilian striker Dodo who would welcome a switch to another HNL1 side such as Slaven Belupo or in form Inter Zapresic.
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