Defender Stipe Radic definitely headed to Sittard
Stipe Radić remains linked to Fortuna. The 22-year-old defender has signed a contract until mid-2024, with the option for one additional season. The former Croatian youth international has been training with head coach Julio Velazquez's team for the past two weeks and came into action against Adana Demirspor and Livingston during the training camp.
With Radić's arrival comes an additional option in defense. "Attracting a talented central defender was one of our wishes this winter transfer window," explained technical manager Sjoerd Ars. "He has made a good impression on us in recent weeks. He is an up and coming professional, and of course we hope he can develop further here in the coming seasons."
The man-marker -who will play in Sittard with jersey number 55- is a youth product of Hajduk Split, the top Croatian club from his hometown. After nine games in the main squad, Radić made the switch to Beerschot. For the Belgian club, the right-back made 42 appearances. Due to the relegation of the Bears, the Croatian received a transfer-free status.
Radić will meet an old acquaintance in Sittard. Like Fortuna goalkeeper Ivor Pandur, the defender made his debut for Croatia U15 on April 25, 2015. Since then, the compatriots met more often with the Croatian national youth teams.