Barcelona have initiated enquiries for a promising Croatian centre-back from Hajduk Split, targeting defensive reinforcements.
The 18-year-old left-footer captivates with his towering frame, aerial prowess, ball-playing poise, and maturity beyond years—earning every minute in recent league starts.
Matteo Moretto’s scoop highlights Barca’s dual-track hunt: January fixes and summer gems, navigating FFP with youth upside.
That defender is Branimir Mlacić, Hajduk’s breakout star blending 1.92m physicality, 77% duel wins, and U21 Croatia caps.
His seamless shift across centre-back roles echoes La Masía ideals, fueling Deco and Flick’s backline reboot post-Zaga woes.
Moretto, via Radio Marca, confirmed Barca’s probing amid Inter Milan, Borussia Dortmund, and Marseille pursuits—Marseille eyes January loan-out.
No easy snag; Hajduk demands premium for their jewel, yet Barca persists, eyeing a long-term steal akin to Luka Vušković links.
Christensen’s absence exposes depth issues; Mlacić slots as a rotational prospect, evolving under Flick’s tutelage. Summer suits best—financial breathing room post-sales—but January whispers persist if rivals pounce.
Hajduk’s academy factory shines: Vušković to Spurs, now Mlacić tempts elites. Barca’s Croatian raid builds on Lovro Chelfi’s signing, scouting Adriatic talents astutely.
Competition stiffens—Atlético Madrid joins fray per whispers. Mlacić’s composure, speed, and positioning scream elite fit; Barca’s charm offensive gains traction.
As enquiries evolve, Mlacić embodies Barca’s youth doctrine—raw potential moulded into stardom, fortifying Flick’s title quest.
With Barcelona’s defensive vulnerabilities glaring amid injuries, Branimir Mlacić emerges as the Adriatic answer—his towering presence, left-footed elegance, and unyielding duels poised to shore up Hansi Flick’s backline.
As Inter, Dortmund, and Atlético circle, Deco’s timely enquiries signal intent: nurture this Hajduk gem into La Masía lore, blending Croatian steel with Catalan flair for sustained dominance.
A summer steal beckons, transforming youth promise into trophy bedrock.
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