Transfer Centre

Manchester United preparing to pay Dominik Livakovic release clause?

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 25 April 2023

Man United preparing to pay Livakovic release clause?

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to pay the release clause of Dinamo Zagreb goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to make an approach for Dinamo Zagreb goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.

The Red Devils have had few issues between the sticks for over a decade, a consequence of the longevity of Spain international David de Gea.

However, as it stands, it remains unclear whether De Gea, who has made in excess of 500 appearances for United, will remain at the club past the end of this season.

United have not activated a 12-month option on De Gea's contract because they want to renegotiate a lower wage for the 32-year-old.

While De Gea has always expressed a desire to stay at Old Trafford, United have been left to assess alternatives while there is uncertainty over his future.

Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag on March 9, 2023 © Reuters

Erik ten Hag also has to contemplate his backup options, with Jack Butland to leave the club in the summer and Tom Heaton at the stage of his career where he will not expect regular senior action.

Furthermore, United may look to sell Dean Henderson, who has spent the campaign on loan at Nottingham Forest and will have interest in his signature.

According to Sportske, United are prepared to meet the release clause of Livakovic.

The 28-year-old has spent the majority of his senior career with Dinamo Zagreb, where he has made a total of 289 appearances in all competitions.

Manchester City's Sergio Aguero in action with GNK Dinamo Zagreb's Dominik Livakovic on October 1, 2019 © Reuters

Despite remaining in his homeland, Livakovic is established as Croatia's number one, earning a total of 43 caps and starring at the 2022 World Cup.

Nevertheless, it appears that a switch to United has become a realistic possibility with the Premier League giants allegedly willing to pay his £9m release clause.

With Livakovic having a contract until 2024, it appears increasingly likely that he will take on a new challenge ahead of 2023-24, aware of the interest in his services.

Villarreal, Real Sociedad and Galatasaray are also said to be monitoring the situation and could ultimately offer more first-team action than United, providing that De Gea stays at the club.