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Seven shocking transfer rumours have recently surrounded Persib Bandung, with Bojan Hodak reportedly playing a part. The speculation includes players with backgrounds from Persija Jakarta, the World Cup, and the UEFA Champions League.

According to multiple reports, numerous big names have been linked to Persib Bandung for the upcoming season. The latest development features seven high-profile Grade A foreign players associated with the club’s transfer radar.

The list includes players with experience in Persija Jakarta, the 2022 World Cup, and the UEFA Champions League.

Croatian forward Mislav Orsic has been strongly linked with Persib Bandung. The initial rumour came from an Indonesian football news source on Saturday, May 30, 2026, stating that Mislav Orsic was on Persib’s radar. The speculation was later echoed by Persib fan accounts, which claimed that Orsic might be heading to Bandung. They highlighted his rich European experience and quality, though no official agreement has yet been reached.

Persib Bandung’s chances of signing Orsic could hinge on two factors. First, his contract with Cyprus-based club Pafos FC expires on May 31, 2026, allowing Persib the opportunity to sign him on a free transfer. Second, Orsic and Bojan Hodak, Persib’s former head coach and current Shareholder Group Technical Advisor, have followed each other on Instagram, despite never having worked together before — possibly due to their shared Croatian nationality. However, Italian journalist Lorenzo Laporee countered the rumour, reporting that Orsic was already set to join Dinamo Zagreb.

Another name recently linked with Persib Bandung is Spanish striker Brandon Thomas from Apollon Limassol. The rumour surfaced on Saturday, May 30, 2026, with reports describing him as a 31-year-old centre-forward currently under contract with the Cypriot club. Although there is no confirmed deal yet, Persib Bandung is reportedly interested. However, Thomas remains bound to Apollon Limassol until May 31, 2027, meaning Persib would need to pay a transfer fee of around Rp17.38 billion — potentially making him the most expensive player in Liga 1. A loan deal could be a more realistic approach if Persib wishes to secure his services for next season.

Meanwhile, another Croatian, goalkeeper Ivan Susak from Lion City Sailors, is also rumoured to be on Persib’s shortlist. Reports from a Lion City Sailors fan account on Sunday, June 31, 2026, stated that Persib Bandung had made an offer for the 28-year-old shot-stopper. His statistics for the season include 31 matches, 36 goals conceded, and 12 clean sheets. However, Persib would need to pay approximately Rp6.95 billion to sign him permanently, as his contract with Lion City Sailors runs until June 30, 2027.

Portuguese defensive midfielder Rui Pires, who recently departed from Lion City Sailors, is another potential target. The rumour emerged on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, alongside reports of Bart Ramselaar’s possible move to Persib and Patricio Matricardi’s negotiation with Lion City Sailors. Having played 67 matches for Lion City since joining in 2023, Pires’ contract expired on June 30, 2026. The club confirmed his departure, thanking him for his contributions and wishing him well. This opens the door for Persib Bandung to sign him on a free transfer.

Dutch winger Bart Ramselaar from Lion City Sailors is also linked with Persib Bandung. Ramselaar recently posted several photos celebrating his Singapore Premier League title, including images from his visit to Persib’s home ground last season. Persib captain Marc Klok’s comment on his post — three clapping emojis — sparked speculation among fans that Ramselaar might be headed to Bandung. Reports from May 27, 2026, indicated that the 29-year-old former PSV Eindhoven and FC Utrecht player could join Persib once his contract with Lion City Sailors expires in June 2026. Ramselaar has an illustrious career with seven major trophies, including the 2017/2018 Dutch Eredivisie title, and holds a market value of Rp20.86 billion — the highest in Liga 1. Persib could secure his signature if they offer an attractive contract and benefits package.

In another surprising development, Persija Jakarta’s Brazilian winger Allano Brendon announced his departure from the club via his personal Instagram account on Monday, June 1, 2026. Although Persija has not yet issued an official statement, Allano expressed his sadness at leaving, saying he had hoped to stay but that contract negotiations did not go as planned. He thanked the club, the fans (Jakmania), and Indonesia for their support, reflecting on his time with nine goals and nine assists. His farewell post, accompanied by a broken-heart emoji, drew responses from teammates and fans alike. Some speculated that Persib Bandung could be his next destination, especially given that he is now a free agent. If Persib chooses to pursue him, the club would have a strong chance of securing his signature.

With these seven names — Mislav Orsic, Brandon Thomas, Ivan Susak, Rui Pires, Bart Ramselaar, and Allano Brendon among them — Persib Bandung’s upcoming transfer window looks set to be one of the most ambitious and intriguing in recent years, with Bojan Hodak’s influence potentially playing a major role in shaping the club’s next chapter.

(By Adi Manggala S)