FC Barcelona has announced a new first team transfer via a statement sent to members of the press and another published on its official website.
“FC Barcelona and Fenerbahce SK have reached an agreement for the transfer of Dominik Livakovic. The Croatian goalkeeper signs for four seasons, until June 30, 2030,” the statement began.
Barca’s correspondence told the story of Livakovic’s rise to the pro ranks in his native Croatia.
After four years at NK Zagreb, he signed for the same Dinamo Zagreb outfit in 2016/2017 where Dani Olmo cut his teeth upon deciding to leave La Masia.
There Livakovic played seven seasons before moving to Fenerbahce, prior to enjoying a loan spell at Girona where he failed to play a single minute.
Livakovic has been more of a protagonist for his overperforming national team, which he has represented at two European champions and three World Cups since making his debut in 2017.
Because of this, he has received silver and bronze medals at the FIFA showpiece for runs to the final and semifinals in 2018 and 2022 respectively.
With Wojciech Szczesny still around on a contract until June 30, 2027, it’s unclear whether Livakovic will immediately form part of Hansi Flick‘s first team squad.
Marc Andre-ter Stegen is already out of the picture after joining Ajax on loan, and is unlikely to ever play for Barca again.
Szczesny could still be undisputed starter Joan Garcia‘s back-up, however, which makes it difficult to believe that someone of Livakovic’s international pedigree will wish to hang around as third choice despite not making an appearance for Girona in their relegation campaign last term.
What makes more sense is Livakovic going out elsewhere on loan to stay sharp, and then rejoining his now parent club permanently ahead of the 2027/2028 season for its preseason camp which could entail an overseas tour.
On Thursday evening, Joan Garcia is guaranteed to start for FC Barcelona in their La Liga home debut against Athletic Club, with Szczesny on the bench.
This article was originally published on Forbes.com
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