Although Croatian media has dismissed the rumours, Celtic have reached an agreement with Fenerbahce to secure the services of Dominik Livakovic. This has been revealed by the Turkish outlet Fotomac as it claims an offer worth €9m being accepted by the Super Lig runners-up.
After losing the title to fierce rivals Galatasaray, Fener appointed Jose Mourinho as their new boss. The Portuguese veteran is expected to make an array of high-profile signings over the next couple of months. And if reports in Turkey are to be believed, Juventus custodian Mattia Perin is on his way to Istanbul from Juventus. The former Italy international spent years as an understudy to Wojciech Szczęsny but is likely to grab the ‘number 1’ status for The Yellow Canaries.
Livakovic, who had a dismal Euro 2024 with Croatia, should be allowed to leave for the right valuation. The 29-year-old shot-stopper progressed through the academy ranks of NK Zadar and NK Zagreb before making more than 100 senior appearances for the latter. A move to Prva HNL heavyweights Dinamo Zagreb in 2016 saw him reaching heights both for his club and the country. After an impressive show in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Fener splashed €6.65m to snap him up in the summer of 2023.
Why Livakovic Would Be A Shrewd Signing In Celtic Goal
Celtic are still in the hunt for a new ‘number 1’ to replace Joe Hart between the sticks. They must opt for a renowned name to succeed the retired Englishman and Livakovic, with all his experience and expertise, would be a top-notch signing for the Glasgow giants.
The Hoops also have Scott Bain and Benjamin Siegrist as goalkeeping options. Bain’s contract has been extended beyond this summer, however, the 32-year-old Tartan Army star is only there as the second fiddle since joining from Dundee on a Bosman. Siegrist, already a forgotten figure after no appearance at all during the 2023-24 season, is set to leave for Australia in the coming days.
Rangers have already made their move and roped in Liam Kelly following the exit of Jon McLaughlin. Unlike the Light Blues, Celtic are going slow and showing patience in terms of summer business. They are not blessed to spend millions in the transfer window and the fee for Livakovic seems a bit too high considering their stringent budget. Having said that, the Bhoys might not find a better profile than the Croatian custodian in today’s inflated market. He would not only resolve the goalkeeper conundrum but also boost their chances for a better European run.
