Croatian youngster Branimir Mlacic has explained why he opted for a move to Udinese despite long-standing interest from Inter Milan.
A lengthy negotiation with the Nerazzurri ultimately did not lead to a deal, and the highly rated defender instead completed a transfer from Hajduk Split to the Friuli-based side.
Presented to the media as a new Udinese player, the 2007-born prospect outlined the thinking behind his decision, via FCInterNews.
“I chose this club because I felt it was the right step for me,” Mlacic said. “Many strong players have come through here and, in my opinion, this is the right stage of my career.”
Inter Miss Out On Croatian Youngster Mlacic To Udinese
Udinese’s technical area chief Gokhan Inler also spoke about the club’s long-term interest in the defender.
“On Mlacic I can say that we have followed him for a long time. He is an interesting, very strong player who has already taken an important step by coming here to us,” Inler explained.
“I spoke with Ivan Rakitic, who told me about the boy and described him as a hard worker who wants to grow step by step. It’s important not to take a step that’s too big.”
For Inter, missing out on Mlacic represents the loss of a promising defensive profile, but for the player himself, Udinese’s reputation as a development hub proved decisive in shaping his choice.
I mean we offered him Serie C and Udinese offers him Serie A, kind of a no brainer. We’re a joke when it comes to transfers.
Hahah this kid is brainless, and it’s good for Inter that it stopped chasing him.. he played only 15,16 senior games for Hajduk Split, because that club is rubbish and can only rely on youngsters until some offer of 3+mill comes along.. and then their greedy hands come together just to fill their pockets
Good riddance