Branimir Mlačić (foto: Twitter)
Hajduk Split have agreed a €5m deal with Inter for teenage defender Branimir Mlačić, who will remain on loan in Split until the end of the season.
Branimir Mlačić has taken a major step towards a high-profile move after Hajduk Split reached an agreement with Inter over his transfer.
According to Italian daily Tuttosport, all terms between the two clubs have been settled, with only personal conditions still to be finalised between the player and Inter — a step that is not expected to present any difficulties.
Loan stay agreed until summer
One key detail changed late in the negotiations. Inter’s original plan was for Mlačić to move immediately to Italy and join the club’s Under-23 side. That option has now been ruled out.
Instead, the 18-year-old centre-back will remain at Hajduk on loan until the end of the season, a solution welcomed by the player, his representatives and Hajduk head coach Gonzalo García, who considers Mlačić a crucial part of his tactical plans.
€5 million fee for Hajduk
The agreed transfer fee stands at €5 million, representing a significant financial boost for Hajduk and further underlining the club’s growing reputation for developing elite defensive talent.
Italian media report that Barcelona and Marseille were both interested but ultimately dropped out of the race, leaving Inter free to secure the deal.
Once the remaining formalities are completed, Mlačić will officially become an Inter player, with his immediate focus remaining on finishing the season strongly at Poljud.