HNK Hajduk Split confirmed a sensational transfer in the final hours of the summer transfer window on Tuesday. The club agreed a deal with PSV Eindhoven for the arrival of young winger Esmir Bajraktarević, as reported by the portal Gol.hr.
The club from Poljud has already begun its European campaign in the Conference League, and with these reinforcements aims to strengthen its squad for the competition's continuation. Hajduk currently sits in 4th place in the HNL with 10 points from five matches, recording three wins, one draw, and one loss. Alongside Bajraktarević, experienced Belgian international Leander Dendoncker, who has 32 caps for his country, is also arriving at Poljud.
Who is Esmir Bajraktarević?
Esmir Bajraktarević was born on March 10, 2005, in Appleton, Wisconsin, United States. His parents originate from Srebrenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. He began his football career in the USA, playing for SC Wave and the Chicago Fire academy. In 2021, he moved to the New England Revolution academy, signing his first professional contract with that club at age 17. He made his MLS debut at 17 and was quickly recognized as one of the most interesting young players in the league due to his technique, dribbling, and one-on-one ability.
In January 2025, Bajraktarević moved to Europe, signing for Dutch side PSV Eindhoven. His contract with the Eindhoven club runs until June 2029. PSV highlighted his technique, crossing ability, dribbling, and direct play skills upon his arrival. The player primarily operates as a left winger but often cuts inside towards the center of the pitch.
How is Hajduk performing in the HNL?
Hajduk's HNL season is off to a solid start. After five rounds, the team has scored 11 goals and conceded five, giving them a goal difference of +6. They currently trail league leaders NK Osijek by just two points in the title race. Their form in the last five league matches is WWWDL, showing a good run before the latest setback. All current standings data is available on our standings page.
Bajraktarević decided to represent Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although he previously represented US youth teams and made one senior friendly appearance for the USA against Slovenia in January 2024, the player switched his sporting nationality. He made his debut for Bosnia and Herzegovina on September 7, 2024, in a friendly against Northern Ireland in Eindhoven, where he also provided an assist.
How will the new players fit in?
The arrivals of Esmir Bajraktarević and Leander Dendoncker bring Hajduk additional quality and competition across all positions. Dendoncker brings experience from the English Premier League and the international stage, while Bajraktarević represents a young, dynamic talent with high potential. These reinforcements are particularly important given the busy schedule that includes European competitions. A detailed overview of all players available to the coach can be found on the squad page.
Hajduk's next challenge is an away match against Rudes on Saturday, September 6, 2026. Rudes currently occupies 8th place in the HNL table. The full schedule of matches for the coming weeks can be followed on our fixtures page. Esmir Bajraktarević's contract with PSV, from which he arrives on loan, runs until the summer of 2029.
