According to the latest reports from Sky Sports, Chelsea are keeping track of Croatia’s emerging winger Antonio Marin. Reigning Premier League champions Manchester City are also said to be monitoring his situation along with La Liga outfit Villarreal.
The winger currently plies his trade for Dinamo Zagreb. He joined their academy in 2019, and he has now managed to break into the senior team. However, he prominently plays for their u-19 side. Marin is considered as one of Croatia’s most significant prospect at this point. Recently Marin starred in the Champions League u-19 tie against Manchester City.
Marin usually plays on the left-wing, but he can slot in almost anywhere in the attacking third. The 18-year-old is currently an international for Croatia at the u-21 level. Chelsea will obviously have to wait until the next summer to make a move for him as they are facing a transfer ban at the moment.
The winger currently has a long term contract with Zagreb as his deal runs until 2024. Therefore we think that Chelsea might have to pay a significant transfer fee for him given how highly he is rated at the moment.
What can Marin offer?
The winger is known for his electric pace and dribbling skills. Marin can link up play as well, but he still needs some experience under his belt before he realises his true potential. Marin at the moment is a raw talent, and Chelsea will have to be patient with him if they manage to sign him.
We are expecting Chelsea to bolster their squad heavily after their transfer ban is lifted. It is unlikely Marin is going to make waves in the first team straight away, and he will have to fight in the youth setup at the club before being considered for first-team appearances.
With City also interested, Chelsea might have a fierce battle on their hands to lure the youngster. However, given the depth which Guardiola has in attacking areas, Marin would probably be better off moving to Chelsea.
Marin has so far made six appearances this season for Zagreb at the senior level, and he will look to establish himself there in the coming months. It will be interesting to see whether he will be able to cope with the challenges of the Premier League. Marin is known to be a trickster who is excellent with both his feet, but he will need something more than that to thrive in the English top flight.
