Dženis Burnić, a defensive midfielder with 22 caps for the Dragons, was on the verge of signing for the Split club, but ultimately opted for the ranks of Russian top-flight side Rostov.
Hajduk has received an unexpected cold shower in the transfer window. Although it seemed last week that the deal was done and that Bosnia and Herzegovina international Dženis Burnić was on the verge of signing for the Split club, the transfer will ultimately not happen. Burnić has decided to continue his career in the East.
As reported on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, by Sportske.ba and Telegram.hr, the experienced 26-year-old defensive midfielder is expected to become the new member of Russian top-flight club Rostov. The Russian club was reportedly more concrete and quicker in the race for his signature than Hajduk.
According to the same information, the interest from the Split club was indeed real. However, Rostov offered terms that tipped the scales in their favor, thus securing the player who has 22 caps for the Dragons in his international CV, including two at this year's World Cup.
Burnić arrives in Russia as a free agent, without a transfer fee, as his contract with German second-division side Karlsruher expired at the end of last season. He spent the last three years of his career at that club, making an impressive 97 appearances, scoring five goals and providing seven assists.
The midfielder's career began in the youth setup of Borussia Dortmund, from where he went on a series of loans and transfers across German clubs. Over the years, he wore the jerseys of Stuttgart, Dynamo Dresden, Heidenheim, and finally Karlsruher. Now, a completely new chapter awaits him in Russia.
For Hajduk, this represents a significant blow to their plans to strengthen their midfield. It remains to be seen whether the Split club will now turn to other targets on the free-agent market.
