According to the Daily Mail today, Arsenal are close to agreeing a deal to buy Dinamo Zabreb midfielder Marcelo Brozovic.

The Gunners have been in talks with Zagreb since October however both clubs have been stuck on a price tag for the playmaker. An apparent bid in the range of £6million (€7million- €9million) has been lodged by Arsenal, and it appears Dinamo are highly considering it, according to Sky Italia.

Brozovic is a key player for Zagreb, making 56 appearances for the club in a few years. He plays in a slightly more advanced role for Dinamo however reports are circulating that Wenger would like him to play in a deeper role in the Arsenal midfield because of his size. His playmaking style may help Arsenal in their ball movement which has been a little patchy this season in some games.

Brozovic has broken into the Croatian national side, making six appearances and according to the Daily Mail; the Gunners already had a failed bid for the midfielder.

This seems like a strange deal to me, if it were to go through. I’m not really sure why Wenger would look to buy a playmaker/attacking midfielder and then convert him to a defensive midfielder.

Especially when the Gunners have been linked with players like Gundogan recently who is already proven in that position. Yes he would cost more but you are paying for quality and guaranteed ability.

Brozovic is playing in a lesser league, so his defensive capabilities haven’t really been proven. Granted he is a good playmaker and creates chances for his team but you don’t want just that from your holding midfielder. You need someone who can control the play and command midfield.

Very strange deal for me, this one. Doubt anything will come of it if I’m honest.