Cracovia officially announced the signing of Croatian striker Fran Brodić, who joins Bartosz Grzelak's squad on a cash deal after Ujpest FC's contract was bought out. The 29‑year‑old, with experience at Club Brugge and Dinamo Zagreb, has a chance to turn the team's fortunes, which currently sit 13th in the Ekstraklasa with 42 points from 34 games (9‑15‑10) and a DDDDD run.

How did the transfer happen?

Germanijak.hr reported that talks began in August and the decision was made after Grzelak met Brodić in Budapest. Both had previously worked together in Hungary, smoothing negotiations. Ujpest, which bought Brodić two years ago for €1.5 million, agreed to an immediate buy‑out, so the move was completed without extra fees.

Why could Brodić change Cracovia's fortunes?

Last season in the Hungarian top flight Brodić played 19 matches and scored one goal, a modest return. Yet his background at clubs like Club Brugge, Dinamo Zagreb and NK Varazdin suggests he can perform at a high level. Grzelak hopes the shared tactical knowledge and language will help him fit quickly into Cracovia's system, which lacks finishing power – the side has scored 39 and conceded 42 goals, a minus‑three difference.

What’s next for Cracovia?

The new striker joins the locker room as the club prepares for upcoming matches in the fight for survival. Alongside Brodić, the squad retains Gabriel Charpentier (who left after the season), Wiktor Bogacz (returning from injury) and youngsters Kacper Śmiglewski and Jean Batoum. The transfer comes just before an expected inflow of several million euros for Oskar Wójcik, who is moving to Werder Bremen. If Brodić finds form, Cracovia could close the 18‑point gap to leaders Lech Poznań.

What challenges face the new forward?

Brodić must adapt to the intensity of the Polish league and help reverse the negative goal balance. Coach Grzelak stresses the need for a quick grasp of his attacking role and cooperation with young talents. For fans, it’s a chance to refresh the offense and fight for every point in a tough season.