Toni Fruk has scored 10 goals and contributed two assists in 26 matches for HNK Rijeka so far this season. That’s seen him attract attention from Arsenal and others.
Liverpool had a scout watch Rijeka at the end of November and there’s a reasonable chance the 24-year-old was the reason. An attacking midfielder, Fruk also plays higher up on occasion.
The rising star has a handful of caps for Croatia already and will expect to go to the World Cup.
Arsenal claims have risen this week, with it even suggested Mikel Arteta’s side are closing in on a deal. The player’s agent Andy Bara has now spoken to the Croatian media and confirmed interest from the Premier League club.
24Sata quote him as saying: “Yes, it’s true, Arsenal want to bring him in.”
Bara also spoke to Sportske Novosti, and dismissed the idea of a deal being agreed.
Arsenal one of a number of clubs keen on Toni Fruk
They contacted him on Tuesday, and he told them he was in London for business reasons, but not to take that as meaning he’s in Arsenal talks: “Whenever someone sees me in a city, stories start immediately. Now someone saw me in London and here comes this one. So, there is no story, except for that one.
“Many clubs are following Toni Fruk, many are interested, but for now there are no concrete talks or negotiations about a possible transfer of Toni. With no interested club.”
Bara has also explained there’s widespread interest, and that his client may be pushed towards Spanish clubs. Atletico Madrid have been linked repeatedly, and Vecernji List report Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool and AC Milan are also keen.
Whether Toni Fruk would want to move in January, and so before the World Cup, isn’t clear. His agent appears to be building up a group of interested clubs, of which Arsenal is one.
There’s been no suggestion of a transfer fee, although it’s likely to be higher than his €9m valuation on Transfermarkt. HNK Rijeka will face some pressure if things are left until the summer, though, given their player’s contract expires in 2027.