It’s that time of year again, European leagues are kicking off, teams are finding their feet, transfer periods are coming to a close, and clubs across the world are all scrambling to finalise the squad they believe can bring them the most success.
One of the names still hot on everyone’s lips in Australia and abroad is Oliver Bozanic. Where will he play in 2015?
The Australian international and current free agent, who just completed a two-year stint in the Swiss Super League with FC Luzern, is rumoured to have numerous clubs all chasing his signature.
With interest reportedly coming in from Italy, Germany, Croatia, Switzerland and Australia the versatile and talented midfielder has no shortage of options, and it’s not surprising given an already impressive career that’s included several highlights at both club and international level.
Most recent reports have suggested that Italian Serie B club Spezia are keen for Bozanic’s services. Spezia, who only just missed out on promotion to Serie A last year, are looking for a midfielder who can take them to the next level in Italian football, and Bozanic would be a much welcomed addition.
There has also been rumours of interest from several A-League clubs, and now that the A-League is one of the most competitive leagues in football, attracting superstars from all around the world, there’s a good chance that a player like Bozanic could be lured back to play on home soil.
While there has been interest from several A-League clubs over the past few weeks, the most talk has surrounded Melbourne Victory, with Adelaide United also getting a mention.
When examining both teams, Melbourne Victory is the most likely destination for Bozanic. After the loss of key man and Socceroo Mark Milligan, Victory would need a versatile midfielder with leadership qualities, and that’s exactly what Bozanic can bring to the table.
In Bozanic’s case, he would step into a leadership role under the guidance of championship-winning coach Kevin Muscat, and into a team that has the firepower to challenge for back-to-back titles when the A-League kicks off on October 8.
If history is anything to go by, wherever he signs, Bozanic will make an impact.
Bozanic, who began his career with the Central Coast Mariners on a short-term contract, has played for English club Reading FC, who in that time competed in the Premier League and Championship. Following his time in England he returned to Australia and signed with the Central Coast Mariners again, where he won an A-League title in 2012-13 under now Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold.
Not long after his success with the Mariners, Bozanic was signed by FC Luzern, where he won player of the month in the August of his first season, beating out Mohamed Salah who is now with Chelsea. He made more than 50 appearances and netted nine goals for the club.
With his success at the Mariners, and eye-catching performances for FC Luzern, Bozanic gained the attention of Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou. He was subsequently named in the 2014 FIFA World Cup squad, where he showed he could match it with some of the world’s best, with impressive displays against Holland and Spain.
Bozanic is likely to make a decision about his future this week, so until then, clubs and fans alike will have to wait just a little bit longer to see which club will land the signature of this promising young Australian midfielder.
Luke is a student with a keen interest in sports journalism. You can follow him on Twitter @LukeRogers_1
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