Arsenal and Chelsea monitor Croatian international Martin Baturina

Both Arsenal and Chelsea have been locked in talks with Dinamo Zagreb regarding a possible deal for talented midfielder Martin Baturina. The 21-year-old central attacking midfielder has captivated audiences in his homeland of Croatia, and his market value has skyrocketed to 30 million euros in recent months.

The Gunners and the Blues both have deployed scouts to monitor the player in action and have sent back glowing references with regard to Baturina. Comfortable playing as an attacking midfielder, similar to a Martin Odegaard type, the player is seen by Arsenal as more of a left central midfielder and as a possible long-term replacement for Thomas Partey.

Chelsea too are in the market for new players, and in recent times have had to cut back on their expenditure in the transfer window. However, with Conor Gallagher likely to depart Stamford Bridge, the West London outfit are seeking a replacement. Baturina would be available for likely half of the transfer fee received for Gallagher, who is wanted by rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

It is understood that the Premier League duo want to wrap up their business as quickly as possible with Dinamo Zagreb, as Baturina has been called up to represent his country for the Euro 2024 tournament. However with the evergreen Luka Modric still representing the Croats, Baturina is unlikely to be called upon during the showpiece tournament on a regular basis.