Man Utd set to sign BARGAIN World Cup star as De Gea replacement
Reports from Croatia suggest that Manchester United are set to trigger the €10 million release clause of Dinamo Zagreb goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic this summer. The 28-year-old was a standout performer at the 2022 World Cup, being renowned for his penalty-saving expertise and helping Croatia reach the semi-finals in Qatar.
Livakovic was linked with a move to Bayern Munich in January, but it seems that United are now in pole position to secure the services of the Croatian goalkeeper as they look to strengthen their goalkeeping department. With David de Gea's contract expiring at the end of the season, United are hoping to tie down the Spaniard to a new deal on significantly lower wages. However, De Gea's recent errors have left some doubt over his long-term credentials, and Livakovic could arrive as a competitor to the 32-year-old next season.
According to Croatian publication Sportske Novosti, Galatasaray, Villarreal, and Real Sociedad are also interested in Livakovic, but the goalkeeper reportedly has "nothing against" ending up at United. Livakovic, who is entering the final year of his deal with Dinamo Zagreb, joined the Croatian side in 2015 and has won nine trophies during his time there. He has also been named the best Croatian goalkeeper for the last four seasons and was included in the 2020/21 Europa League team of the season.
While there are concerns over Livakovic's ability to play with his feet, the bargain release clause represents value for United, who have relied on veteran keepers Tom Heaton and Jack Butland to provide competition for De Gea this season. United are still thought to be fans of goalkeepers such as David Raya and Diogo Costa, but Livakovic is likely to be preferred due to his price tag, with manager Erik ten Hag prioritising his budget on a top-level striker this summer.
Overall, if United do secure the services of Livakovic, it could provide valuable competition for De Gea and potentially solve their long-standing goalkeeper conundrum. It remains to be seen whether Livakovic can adapt to the Premier League and live up to expectations, but at just €10 million, he represents a low-risk option for the Red Devils.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0