Croatian defender Maglica leaves Germany for Turkey, joins Petković at Kocaelispor

Croatian defender Matej Maglica is poised to make a move to Turkey, joining Kocaelispor after a successful stint with German club Darmstadt. Sky Sports Germany reports that the 27-year-old center-back is expected to travel to Turkey for a medical examination and to finalize a two-year contract, potentially extending until 2028.

Maglica enjoyed a standout season with Darmstadt, becoming a key player for the German second-division team. He not only contributed defensively but also proved to be a significant goal threat, scoring eight goals in 33 appearances across all competitions. His impressive performance made him one of the most effective defenders in the league and attracted attention from several clubs.

Despite interest from clubs like Dinamo Zagreb and Kaiserslautern, a transfer did not materialize earlier. Now, Maglica is set to embark on a new challenge in the top tier of Turkish football. The transfer fee Kocaelispor will pay for Maglica has not yet been disclosed.

Born in Slavonski Brod, Maglica began his football career in Croatia before moving to Germany at age 16. His development included a brief period in Switzerland. The 198 cm tall left-footed defender joined Darmstadt from Stuttgart in 2024 for approximately 800,000 euros, with his current market value estimated at 1.2 million euros by Transfermarkt. At Kocaelispor, he will reunite with fellow Croatian international Bruno Petković.

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Matej Maglica is on the verge of a transfer from Darmstadt to Kocaelispor. Medical check and signature are expected today. Contract until 2028.