Russian arrives at Maksimir: Dinamo signs midfielder from Sochi

Dinamo Zagreb has bolstered its midfield with the acquisition of Kiril Kravtsov, a 24-year-old Russian player. Kravtsov arrives at the Croatian champions on a free transfer following the conclusion of his contract with Russian club Sochi.

Kravtsov had reportedly agreed to terms with Dinamo earlier in August, but his arrival in Croatia was delayed due to visa complications. With administrative matters now resolved, the Russian midfielder is set to finalize a four-year deal with the Zagreb-based club.

Primarily a defensive midfielder, Kravtsov is expected to provide competition and depth for coach Igor Bišćan in that role, serving as an option alongside Josip Mišić. Dinamo also views him as a potential long-term successor to Mišić in the crucial defensive midfield position.

Kravtsov began his career in Zenit's youth system and debuted for their senior team in March 2021. He made 13 league appearances for the St. Petersburg club and participated in Champions League matches against Malmö and Chelsea. Seeking more consistent playing time, he moved to Sochi in the summer of 2022, where he established himself as a regular starter over the past three seasons, accumulating over 100 official appearances.

Despite interest from clubs outside Russia, including Spanish sides Cádiz and another unnamed club, as well as Moscow Lokomotiv, Kravtsov opted to join Dinamo. The prospect of competing in European competitions was a significant factor in his decision to leave Russian football for the first time in his career and move to Zagreb.