NK Varaždin have officially strengthened their defence with the signing of 22-year-old defender Luka Lukanić on a two-year contract. The young player arrives as a free agent after leaving Slovak side Bravo, having begun his professional career at Dinamo Zagreb.
Lukanić spent a full 12 years in Dinamo's academy, captained their junior team, and signed a professional deal in November 2022. He made his senior debut for the Blues in a Champions League qualifier on 2 July 2023. Following that, he had a loan spell at Zrinjski Mostar before spending seasons in Belgium with Genk and in Slovenia with Domžale and Bravo.
"The first impressions are really excellent," said Lukanić. "The team has welcomed me very well and I am happy to have come to Varaždin."
Lukanić's arrival comes as Varaždin are in a strong position in the HNL. The team currently sits fourth with 15 points from eight games, just one point behind leaders Dinamo Zagreb. They are unbeaten in their last five matches, with the latest result a 0-0 draw against Osijek.
This transfer bolsters the squad as they prepare for an away fixture against Lokomotiva Zagreb on 10 October. In their last meeting in June, Lokomotiva won 2-1.
Luka Lukanić was born on 3 June 2004 and has represented Croatia at the U-19 level. His contract with Varaždin runs until the summer of 2028.
Read the full report at Index.hr Sport
