Chelsea have confirmed the signing of 18-year-old Croatian wonderkid Vanja Mačkić from Dinamo Zagreb for a fee of £12.25 million. The talented defender joins the Blues after completing his medical and being granted a work permit, finalising a move that had been quietly building in the background during the January window.
Director of Football Pep Guardiola oversaw the completion of the deal, announcing the youngster’s arrival after Head Physio Elliot Piggott-Smith gave him a clean bill of health. Mačkić signs a long-term contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until the summer of 2057, with a starting wage of £36.5K per week, potentially rising to £63K based on performance-related clauses.
Regarded as one of Croatia’s most promising defenders, Mačkić brings versatility and intelligence to Chelsea’s back line. Capable of playing both as a centre-back and a defensive midfielder, his strengths include excellent marking, tackling, and a high work rate. He is also a current international, having already earned five senior caps for Croatia since debuting in April 2052.
Mačkić made 28 league appearances for Dinamo Zagreb and impressed with his composure and consistency, catching the attention of top clubs across Europe. Despite his youth, he has posted solid metrics in international competitions, completing 95% of his passes and averaging 11.5km covered per match. Coaches at Chelsea believe he could develop into a mainstay of the squad, especially with injuries and rotation playing a key role in a demanding campaign.
Assistant Manager Phil Jones’ report highlights him as a “professional individual with good timing in the challenge” and notes his potential to improve significantly. While he may initially serve as an impact substitute, his trajectory hints at a much larger role in the years ahead.
This transfer continues Chelsea’s recent pattern of strategic youth acquisitions, aimed at ensuring long-term dominance both domestically and in Europe. With Vanja Mačkić now part of the squad, all eyes will be on his integration and impact during the business end of the season.