During the transfer window, unexpected turns are not just commonplace, they’re a certainty.
As the summer transfer window heats up, Celtic could find themselves unexpectedly back in the race for Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.
Livakovic, a towering 28-year-old goalkeeper, currently plies his trade with Dinamo Zagreb. His reputation as a reliable shot-stopper has the attention of clubs from across Europe, with Celtic being credited with a keen interest.
Only a fortnight ago, it seemed Celtic fans were left disappointed as reports emerged of a deal between Livakovic and Turkish giants Fenerbahce. The supposed agreement was seen as a blow for the to Celtic, who are seeking to bolster their goalkeeping department ahead of the new season. However, as it often happens in the transfer window, this deal has so far failed to materialise.
BDO Sports report that Dinamo Zagreb want to keep a hold of their goalkeeper for the entirety of their Champions League qualifiers. The Croatian side are currently in the second round of qualifiers and are comfortable four goals to the good against Astana. But given the amount of money up for grabs by qualifying for the group stages, keeping a hold of Dominic until then, appears to be a sensible move. It now leaves the door open for other clubs despite the same report still pushing Livakovic towards Fenerbahce.
What We Know So Far
Celtic’s interest in Livakovic is apparent, but it’s important to note that the Bhoys have yet to table a formal bid. Mark Hendry from Football Scotland revealed the interest around the same time as the Fenerbahce move looked on.
Hendry wrote hours after Celtic’s internet had become known that a deal looked to have been done by the Turkish side.
Manager Brendan Rodgers, alongside the club’s scouting team, has marked the goalkeeping position as an area for reinforcement this summer, and Livakovic seems to fit the bill.
Joe Hart is entering the final year of his contract with the club. The potential arrival of Livakovic would not only provide immediate competition for Hart but also offer a long-term solution in the event Hart’s stay in Glasgow isn’t extended.
Former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie told Football Insider that the Hoops will have the funds to outbid Fenerbahce.
He said “That is what Celtic are, they can go and match Fenerbahce without any problems.
“I think he will be a lot better coming to Celtic than going to Turkey. I would say we are a better club for anyone of that stature.
“He was different class in the World Cup. It would be a great thing for him and Joe Hart to have a fight.
“It would be wonderful for the football club, I do not think [Scott] Bain or [Benjamin] Siegrist can challenge Joe Hart.
For the moment, all eyes are on Fenerbahce and their moves in the goalkeeper market. Celtic may see a golden opportunity to swoop in for Livakovic. However, they are going to have to put down some serious cash if they want the World Cup star before the end of the window.
