HNK Hajduk Split made it clear on Tuesday that Esmir Bajraktarević will not be joining their squad. The club stated that the Bosnian-Herzegovinian international and PSV player "is not coming to Hajduk, nor was he ever an option for this transfer window," as reported by Index.hr Sport.
Who is Esmir Bajraktarević?
Esmir Bajraktarević is a 21-year-old left winger who primarily plays on the right flank. He is a Bosnia and Herzegovina international. In January 2025, he transferred from the New England Revolution in MLS to Dutch side PSV for a fixed fee of three million euros. His contract in Eindhoven runs until the summer of 2029, and Transfermarkt values him at eight million euros. PSV could pay up to six million euros in bonuses for his signature.
Why was the transfer unlikely?
Despite rumours circulating about a potential loan move for Bajraktarević to Hajduk with a purchase option, the club has now denied them all. Hajduk's sports director Nikola Kalinić was involved in previous discussions about the player, but no progress was made this time. Hajduk currently sits 4th in the HNL with 10 points from five matches and next face an away fixture against Rudes. The search for new reinforcements will likely focus on other targets. They currently boast a +6 goal difference, having scored 11 and conceded 5 goals this season.
Were other Croatian clubs interested?
Two years ago, Dinamo Zagreb attempted to sign Esmir Bajraktarević but could not reach an agreement with PSV. This summer window, Dinamo again showed interest, but negotiations once more proved unsuccessful. A Hajduk move for a player of this value would have been a strong market signal, especially after their drop to the Conference League. However, that chapter is now closed.
What is Hajduk's situation ahead of the next match?
The Hajduk Split squad is currently second in the HNL, just two points behind leaders Osijek. Their recent form reads WWWDL. Their next challenge is on Friday, September 6, 2026, with an away match against 8th-placed Rudes. You can find all details of upcoming matches on our fixtures page. Also, follow the current standings to see how the title race unfolds.
