Barcelona bring in Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic to strengthen squad

Barcelona have signed Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic from Fenerbahce for a reported initial fee of two million euros, with a further 500,000 euros potentially payable in add-ons.

The 31-year-old’s arrival gives head coach Hansi Flick another experienced option after Marc-Andre ter Stegen moved to Ajax on loan earlier this month.

Livakovic is expected to compete with Joan Garcia for the starting position, while veteran goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny remains available as additional cover.

The Croatia international spent the past two seasons with Fenerbahce, making 74 appearances and keeping 24 clean sheets. His move to Barcelona follows a successful spell with Dinamo Zagreb, where he won several domestic honours before joining the Turkish club in 2023.

Livakovic has been Croatia’s first-choice goalkeeper for much of the past decade and has represented his country at three World Cups and two European Championships. His international experience adds further depth to a Barcelona squad defending its La Liga title.

The transfer makes Livakovic the sixth player to join Barcelona during the current window. He follows Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, Jesse Bisiwu, Rodri and Joao Cancelo in moving to the Catalan club.

Barcelona opened their La Liga title defence in emphatic fashion last weekend, recording a 5-0 away win against Elche. They return to action on Thursday, when Athletic Bilbao provide the opposition.

Flick’s side will be aiming to build on that commanding start as they continue their campaign, with Livakovic now set to provide competition and experience in goal.

The goalkeeper’s previous record at both club and international level gives Barcelona an established alternative as they adjust to ter Stegen’s temporary departure. At Fenerbahce, he featured regularly across two seasons, while his earlier achievements with Dinamo Zagreb helped establish him as one of Croatia’s leading goalkeepers.

His arrival also leaves Barcelona with three senior options in the position. Garcia is expected to remain the main challenger for the starting role, Livakovic will compete for selection, and Szczesny is available should further cover be required.

Barcelona’s recruitment this summer has therefore continued across several areas of the squad, with Livakovic becoming the latest addition before the club’s next league fixture against Athletic Bilbao.