Branimir Mlačić (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
Branimir Mlačić is set to join Watford on loan from Udinese, only six months after the Italian club paid Hajduk €4.5 million for the Croatian defender.
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Croatian youth international
Branimir Mlačić is set for another major move only six months after leaving Hajduk Split, with the 19-year-old defender closing in on a switch to
Watford.
According to reports in Italy and England, Udinese and Watford have reached an agreement for Mlačić to spend the season on loan with the Championship club.
The proposed deal also includes an option to buy, with the transfer now approaching completion.
Mlačić is expected to join Watford shortly and begin the next stage of his development in English football.
Udinese want Mlačić playing regularly
Udinese face significant competition for places in central defence and have concluded that keeping Mlačić on the fringes of their senior squad could slow his progress.
The Italian club therefore see a season in the Championship as a valuable opportunity for the teenager.
England's second tier is renowned for its demanding schedule and physical football, offering Mlačić the chance to gain the senior minutes and consistency that could be difficult to secure in Serie A this season.
Udinese's decision to sanction the move is therefore primarily based on development rather than dissatisfaction with the young Croatian.
Watford looking for defensive reinforcement
Watford, meanwhile, need additional options in defence.
Manager Alessio Dionisi has pushed for reinforcements, and Mlačić has emerged as a solution who could provide both immediate competition and significant long-term potential.
Italian reports stress that Udinese have not given up on the defender despite allowing him to leave temporarily.
The inclusion of a purchase option nevertheless gives Watford the possibility of keeping Mlačić beyond the initial one-year loan if he impresses in England.
Negotiations are also made considerably easier by the fact that Watford and Udinese share the same ownership, allowing the two clubs to coordinate the player's development.
Hajduk received €4.5m only six months ago
Mlačić began his football career with Trogir 1912 before joining Hajduk's academy at the age of 11.
He progressed through the youth ranks in Split and quickly established himself as one of the club's most highly rated defensive prospects.
After playing at cadet and junior level, Mlačić broke into Hajduk's senior team and made 19 competitive appearances for the first team.
His development attracted Udinese, who paid €4.5 million to sign him in February.
Mlačić agreed a long-term contract with the Serie A club running until the summer of 2031.
Only six months later, another important step in his young career now appears imminent.
Rather than waiting for opportunities in Italy, the 19-year-old is expected to continue his development in one of Europe's most demanding second divisions.
Mlačić is also a regular member of the Croatia U21 national team, and consistent senior football at Watford could further accelerate his progress.