Grazer AK announced on July 9 2026 that 20‑year‑old centre‑back Petar Markovic has joined the club on a three‑year contract, a clear move to shore up their defence for the upcoming season.

Who is Petar Markovic?

Born in Vienna, Markovic featured for Austria’s U19 side and came through the Austria Academy. In summer 2024 he moved to Bologna’s youth set‑up, playing in the UEFA Youth League and making 39 appearances for the club’s U20 team, scoring twice and even earning a bench spot for a Serie A match.

Why a permanent deal?

Breaking into Bologna’s first team proved difficult, and a loan within Italy was not pursued. Instead, on July 9 2026 he signed a three‑year contract with GAK, which had just let go of centre‑backs Lukas Graf and Martin Kreuzriegler. Markovic becomes the eighth new signing for the "Rotjacken" this summer.

What does this mean for the back line?

Grazer AK already secured defender Beres Owusu from Saint‑Étienne. Adding Markovic, a physically strong centre‑back, gives the team more depth and tactical flexibility. Coach Ferdinand Feldhofer now has several options to rotate his defence.

What about Leon Klassen?

The 26‑year‑old left‑back Leon Klassen featured in 15 games for Grazer AK last season, netting one goal and providing an assist. According to a Kronen Zeitung report, the club has reached an agreement with his parent club Darmstadt for a permanent move, meaning Klassen could return to Graz soon.

Who else has arrived?

Before Markovic, Grazer AK added Peter Michorl, Anderson, Matthias Gragger, Anthony Smits, Ismael Guerti, former Austria keeper Cican Stankovic and loanee Tim Trummer. This flurry of activity makes Grazer AK the most active buyer among Austrian Bundesliga clubs this transfer window.