The First Strike in Split

It is official. Hajduk Split has struck first in the transfer market, and the target was not some distant foreign star. The club has secured Etnik Brruti, a 22-year-old midfielder from Kosovo, on a free transfer. The deal sees the player signing a contract that runs until 2029, a bold statement of intent from the club on the Adriatic coast. This marks the first incoming transfer of the new era under sporting director Robert Graf, though the groundwork was laid long before the announcement hit the wires.

A Talent With History

Brruti is no stranger to the spotlight. Primarily a central midfielder, he possesses the versatility to drop into a second-striker role if the tactical board demands it. Last season, he was a key figure for Malisheva, appearing in the league, the cup, and the UEFA Conference League qualifiers. His numbers tell a story of impact: 35 appearances, nine goals, five assists, and a fiery temperament evidenced by 11 yellow cards. Transfermarkt values him at 550,000 euros, a price tag Hajduk happily avoided.

The connection to Split was already forming. In April, Brruti attended the clash between Hajduk and NK Osijek at Poljud Stadium, accompanied by his manager Eros Grezda. Grezda, a former player for Lokomotiva, Osijek, Šibenik, and Rangers, has a proven track record with Hajduk, having facilitated the arrival of Rona Racija from Prishtina last summer. Brruti’s path was clearly mapped out.

Albanian Ambitions and Squad Shuffles

Internationally, Brruti has switched allegiances. After representing Kosovo from U-16 to U-21, he opted to play for Albania. He has made eight appearances for the Albanian U-21 side, scoring twice, and has even received calls-up from senior coach Sylvinho. His ambition is clear.

His arrival signals a shift in Hajduk’s strategy. The club is moving towards a more financially prudent model. While Brruti comes in without a transfer fee, the club is simultaneously trimming the squad. Anthony Kalik and Ismaël Diallo will not see contract renewals. Veterans Zvonimir Šarlija, Filip Krovinović, and Hugo Guillamon are free to seek new clubs despite having valid contracts. Even Ante Rebić awaits a decision on his extension. Hajduk is reshaping its identity, one signature at a time.