Adrian Zeljković (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
Adrian Zeljković’s transfer to Plymouth Argyle collapses due to work permit issues, keeping the Slovenian U21 star at Spartak Trnava for now.
Adrian Zeljković, one of the standout players in the Slovak Super Liga, will continue his season with Spartak Trnava after a potential move to Plymouth Argyle in the English Championship fell through. The transfer collapsed due to difficulties obtaining a work permit, which required Zeljković to have senior national team appearances.
The U21 Slovenian international, who recently helped his side qualify for the Euro U21, attracted interest from Plymouth, a club fighting to stay in England’s second division. The interest was driven by the club's new manager, Miron Muslić, an Austrian coach of Balkan descent, who shares the same agency representation as Zeljković (Pro Transfer). Despite this connection, the deal could not be finalized.
Zeljković, who was named Spartak's Player of the Year at the end of 2022 and included in the Team of the Season for the Slovak league, remains a key figure for his current team. With a market value estimated at €2 million by transfermarkt.de, the 21-year-old continues to draw attention, but for now, he will focus on leading Spartak’s campaign in the Slovak Super Liga.
The missed transfer highlights the challenges young talents from smaller leagues face when pursuing opportunities in England, where strict work permit rules prioritize senior international experience.
Nevertheless, Zeljković’s performances in Slovakia suggest it’s only a matter of time before he secures a move to a bigger stage.