The Battles on for Edin Dzeko

Over the past couple of seasons one striker has really shone out in the Bundesliga – Wolfsburg’s Bosnian international Edin Dzeko.

Dzeko is a big imposing striker whose physical presence is a problem for defenders trying to mark him, but he is also blessed with some near skills. In some respects he reminds me a little of Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, which isn’t a bad thing at all. At Wolfsburg his goals per game ratio is around one in two, which is a very impressive statistic and he formed a great partnership with strike partner Grafite during the last campaign.

It looked as if AC Milan were all set to wrap up a deal to bring Dzeko to the San Siro during the summer, but that failed to materialise. However, reports are suggesting Dzeko could make the move to Serie A in the summer – although it has now emerged Chelsea are in the running.

Dzeko has an Italian agent, Silvano Martina, so you would perhaps think his agent would prefer a move to an Italian side. However, Martina has said Chelsea are very much in the running to snap up his client.

“I can confirm that Milan really likes the player. At the time in Italy they are the club which showed most interest.” Martina told calciomercato.it. “But attention must be paid to Chelsea as the Blues are following Dzeko.”

I’ve seen Dzeko on a number of occasions in the Champions League and I’m certain he could hold his own in any of Europe’s top leagues. The Bundesliga is a quality league itself, but I would argue that La Liga, the Premier League and the Serie A are of a slightly higher standard than the German competition and it would be good to see how Dzeko equips himself in a different environment.

The Bosnian hitman was nominated for the 2009 Ballon d’Or, making the shortlist of 30 players, which should see his stock rise somewhat. It would appear at the moment as if AC Milan and Chelsea are the frontrunners in the hunt for his signature, though Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United have all been credited with an interest and it seems certain Dzeko will depart Wolfsburg during the summer.

Written by Gareth Freeman, a sports writer promoting Irish racing and Fairyhouse tips.

Popularity: 15% [?]