Who is Josip Sutalo? Dinamo Zagreb starlet linked with Arsenal

Tom Hancock

• Updated: 5 May 2023 15:22 BST
• 3 min read

The likes of Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic took Croatian football to new heights by reaching the 2018 World Cup final – and now, another exciting talent from the Adriatic could be on their way to one of Europe’s top leagues: Dinamo Zagreb hotshot Josip Sutalo.

Sutalo has enjoyed a breakout season in 2022/23, making his mark both domestically and continentally for Dinamo – who have just claimed their fifth straight Croatian top-flight title.

His performances seem to have caught the eye of some of Europe’s biggest clubs – who could land him for a possible bargain fee this summer, with Dinamo said to value their prodigious talent at just over €20m.

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What position does Sutalo play in?

Sutalo primarily operates as a centre-back, profiling as a ball-playing defender and excelling in blocking shots and recovering possession; he has also been deployed at left-back on occasion.

How good is Sutalo?

Having progressed through Dinamo’s successful youth system, Sutalo made his first-team debut for the 24-time champions of Croatia in January 2020, aged 19.

A regular since last season, he has made 77 appearances for Dinamo so far – including six in the Champions League, starring in last September’s memorable win over Chelsea.

Sutalo earned his first senior Croatia cap just under a year ago and was part of his country’s squad for the 2022 World Cup – featuring in their third place play-off victory against Morocco.

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What clubs are interested in Sutalo?

Sutalo has reportedly caught the eye of Arsenal and Leeds – with the latter said to be preparing an offer.

RB Leipzig have also been linked as they face the prospect of losing another rising Croatian defensive star: Josko Gvardiol.

When does Sutalo’s contract expire?

Sutalo’s current contract with Dinamo runs until 30 June 2028.

How old is Sutalo?

Born on 28 February 2000, Sutalo is 23 years old at the time of writing.

What is Sutalo’s Instagram?

Sutalo’s Instagram can be found under the handle @josip.sutalo. He has 41.3k followers as of May 2023.