Branimir Mlačić leaves Hajduk in €5.5m Udinese transfer

Hajduk Split have once again been unable to retain one of their most promising young players.

The transfer of Branimir Mlačić has now been finalised, with the 18-year-old completing a move from Hajduk Split to Udinese. The deal, confirmed on Tuesday, is worth €5.5 million.

Despite strong interest from several major European clubs — including Inter — Hajduk ultimately agreed terms with Udinese, who acted decisively to secure the signature of the highly rated defender.

Long-term contract in Serie A

Mlačić, a youth international for Croatia, has signed a five-and-a-half-year contract and will continue his career in Serie A. During the current HNL season, he made 15 first-team appearances, establishing himself as one of the most exciting defensive prospects in Croatian football.

A dream realised at Hajduk

Born in Trogir, Mlačić began playing football at his hometown club before fulfilling a childhood dream at the age of 11 by joining Hajduk’s academy. His development was rapid. He captained both the U-17 and U-19 teams and earned promotion to the senior squad at the start of the season, where he quickly made the transition to top-flight football.

For Hajduk, the transfer represents a significant financial boost — but also a familiar frustration. Once again, the club has been forced to part with a homegrown talent before he reaches full maturity at Poljud.

A pattern that continues

While the €5.5 million fee will strengthen Hajduk’s balance sheet, Mlačić’s departure reinforces the growing sense that Croatian clubs struggle to keep their elite prospects once Serie A and other top leagues come calling.

For Udinese, the deal fits a well-established strategy: identifying, developing and later selling young talent at a profit. For Mlačić, it is a major step — from a boyhood dream in Split to a long-term challenge on Italy’s biggest stage.