Inter Reach Mlacic Agreement With Hajduk Split As One Final Step Remains
Mlacic is one of Croatia's best young players.
Giuseppe Labellarte
Updated on 12 January 2026
Inter have reached an agreement with Hajduk Split over teenage centre-back Branimir Mlacic, according to reports in Italy.
Fabrizio Romano says Inter and Hajduk are aligned on the fee, with the deal expected to be worth around €5m.
The Nerazzurri see the 18-year-old as a long-term defensive investment, as they plan ahead for changes at the back over the coming seasons.
Prior reports have suggested that Inter are planning a ‘revolution’ in the next two transfer windows alone.
What still needs to happen between Inter and Branimic Mlacic
Romano and Matteo Moretto say there are “no obstacles” between the clubs. However, Inter still need a decisive push on the player side.
That is partly because Mlacic has attracted interest from other teams in Italy and across Europe, creating competition for his signature.
Inter believe they can sell a clear pathway to him, even if it does not begin in the first team.
Romano has suggested Inter could place Mlacic in their Under-23s or loan him out as part of his development plan.
Hajduk could also be open to keeping him on loan until the end of the season, which is common for deals of this type.
Inter have been working on the Mlacic move for some time, and the growing optimism reflects how far negotiations have progressed.
Why Inter want to sign Mlacic
Mlacic is one of Hajduk’s standout young defenders, with Inter appreciating his physical presence and calmness in duels.
Standing 6ft 2in tall, he is a no-nonsense, physically dominant defender.
Mlacic is strong in duels and aerial battles, with a profile suited to the heart of a back three.
The Nerazzurri also like the value of the deal. The relatively low fee gives them room to develop him without too much financial risk.
🇭🇷 Branimir Mlačić is a centre-back I’m keeping a close eye on this season.
Extremely strong considering he’s only 18-years-old. Very good in the air as well, especially inside the box.
Wins 77% of his defensive duels and 66% of his 3.44 aerial duels per 90.
He can play as… pic.twitter.com/nLTWhMm3pP
— Bence Bocsák (@BenBocsak) November 24, 2025
Inter scouts have tracked him closely, and the meeting with his representatives could be a key moment in moving forward.
Liverpool also like Mlacic, while Real Madrid, Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Olympique Marseille and Como have also been linked.
However, Inter believe they have positioned themselves best by acting early and agreeing terms with Hajduk.
Giuseppe Labellarte
Giuseppe Labellarte is a sports journalist with over a decade of professional experience in the industry. His main professional expertise is in soccer. Prior to joining FootItalia, he worked for the likes of Sports Mole, TBR Football, the Chelsea Chronicle and numerous other sites, along with having bylines in the likes of the Nottingham Post. He holds degrees in Journalism and International Relations.
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