Barcelona lodge enquiry for 18-year-old Croatian defensive starlet – report | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are in the market for a new centre-back following the recent injury to Andreas Christensen, and have been looking at various options for the January transfer window.

There have been reports suggesting that the Blaugrana would consider signing a young talent with immense potential, while some sources have claimed that the Catalans want someone established, on loan, so that they can make an immediate impact.

Either way, there have been many players linked, ranging from veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi of Benfica to teenager Luka Vuskovic of Tottenham (on loan at Hamburg).

Another player who is said to be on the radars of the reigning La Liga champions happens to be Hajduk Split teenager Branimir Mlacic.

Barcelona ask about Mlacic

Indeed, according to Matteo Moretto on MARCA, Barcelona like 18-year-old Mlacic a lot and have asked about his situation at Hajduk Split.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Branimir Mlačić (@branimir.mlacic)

The Blaugrana admire the teenage prospect because of his profile and potential and have made enquiries for him.

However, as per the report, a move for the young Croatian defender will be anything but straightforward, as several other clubs have also shown an interest in him.

Teams such as Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan are among those in the race for young Mlacic, while there has been talk of a possible January move to Olympique de Marseille as well.

So, any move for the teenage Croatian, who offers a great physical presence at the back, while being quick and comfortable with the ball at his feet, will be difficult, either in January or in the summer of 2026.