Arsenal had bids for Vrsaljko and Halilovic rejected

Dinamo Zagreb have confirmed that Arsenal made bids for young duo Alen Halilovic and Sime Vrsaljko rejected. The latter later went on to sign for Italian side Genoa; but his former club have confirmed the Gunners were in the race for his signature.

Dinamo have something of a reputation for producing the best young prospects in Croatia and the Gunners were amongst the teams who had a watchful eye on Zagreb's best talent.


The Sporting Director of Dinamo, Zoran Mamic, confirmed the Gunners' bids: "The truth is, Arsenal wanted our two players last season but for a much higher amount than this [€10m]. Zdravko [Mamic, the club’s executive director and brother of Zoran] immediately rejected the offer and sent a message to the leaders of Arsenal to not insult him and the club."