Luka Topalović: Slovenia’s rising star catches the eye of Croatian scouts

Luka Topalović, one of Slovenia’s most promising football talents, is making waves in Inter Milan’s youth ranks. The 17-year-old forward has already left a mark in Slovenia’s top flight and for the national youth teams, but his performances have also caught the eye of Croatian football officials, who are reportedly monitoring the rising star due to his family background.

Topalović made his senior debut for Domžale in the Slovenian Prva Liga at just 16, under the mentorship of the club’s then-sporting director, Senijad Ibričić. His rapid rise was recognized by The Guardian, which listed him among the 60 most talented footballers born in 2006. By the time he moved to Inter Milan this summer, he had already amassed 47 senior appearances and scored three goals in Slovenian football.

At Inter, Topalović has continued to thrive, playing a crucial role in the club’s Primavera team. In this season’s UEFA Youth League, he has already registered three goals and one assist in just five matches, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star.

His impressive displays have reportedly attracted the interest of the Croatian Football Federation, according to Croatian media outlet Index. Both of Topalović’s parents are Croatian from Bosnia and Herzegovina, which would make him eligible to represent either Croatia or Bosnia and Herzegovina at the international level.

However, there is no indication that Topalović is considering a switch. The young forward has consistently represented Slovenia at youth levels, scoring six goals in 16 matches across various age categories. Croatian media also acknowledge that Topalović has never expressed any intention to play for any national team other than Slovenia.

For now, Topalović remains focused on his development at Inter and contributing to Slovenia’s youth national teams, while speculation about his international future continues to swirl.