Lovre Kalinic is coming to the end of his 18-month loan spell at Hajduk Split and will return to Aston Villa this summer, but his future in the Midlands is uncertain as he’s not made an appearance for the Claret and Blues since 2019.
The 32-year-old joined Villa on a five-year deal from KAA Gent three years ago and has gone on to make eight appearances in all competitions, conceding 15 goals with one clean sheet. Kalinic struggled for form, fitness and playing time at Villa, resulting in him being loaned out.
One year after signing for Villa, the Croatian international was loaned out to Toulouse (January 2020 – June 2020) and went on to make four appearances, conceding four goals with two clean sheets. He spent the following campaign at his former club Hajduk (January 2021 – June 2022) and made 35 appearances, conceding 31 goals with 16 clean sheets.
Kalinic is coming off the back of a successful loan spell in Croatia, but it may not be enough to keep him at Villa. Emiliano Martinez is first choice under Steven Gerrard and Robin Olsen is second choice. Jed Steer is still on the books too, so there’s stiff competition for playing time.
Villa will hope Kalinic’s loan spell at Hajduk results in offers coming his way as he could leave on a free transfer next year. They can cash in early this summer.
