Negotiations for a multimillion-dollar investment in Hajduk Split, aimed at making the club more competitive, appear to be gaining momentum after weeks of speculation. Ivica Pirić, a former Hajduk player and honorary consul of Ukraine in Croatia, has posted a photograph on Facebook, along with Ukrainian billionaire Vladimir Nosov, holding up the Hajduk and Torcida flags. The post, which reads, "Good morning everyone, a big hello from me and my friend Volodya! See you soon in Split, Hajduk lives forever," suggests a significant shift in the club's future.

What's Happening?

The proposed investment does not necessarily signify ownership of the club but is rather seen as potential sponsorship or financial injection, which could provide Hajduk with more maneuvering room before the new season. Nosov, a prominent figure in the crypto sector and founder of the WhiteBIT group, has been the focus of recent discussions about a major foreign capital inflow into the club.

Pirić's role is crucial, as he is connected to Nosov through the Croatian company White Tech, which recently received regulatory approval to offer crypto-related services in Croatia. This approval provides a formal basis for Nosov's business project in the Croatian market, and Pirić has hinted at the possibility of sports club sponsorship.

Potential Sponsorship

The situation is sensitive due to Hajduk's unique governance model, strong "people's club" identity, and the significant role played by its members. Any arrangement that brings financial support with management influence would likely spark intense debate among fans and club shareholders.

As talks commence, Pirić has been spending time in Dalmatia, posting a photograph with Igor Štimac on social media, which sparked further speculation about his involvement with the club.