Manchester United target won’t sign new deal as coach admits sale possible

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Dinamo Zagreb’s manager has indicated that Dominik Livakovic may be on his way with Manchester United in contact with the contract-rebel goalkeeper. 

In truth, there was very little David de Gea could have done to keep Alexis Mac Allister’s spot-kick out of the net during last week’s oh-so-frustrating 1-0 defeat at Brighton and Hove Albion.

But, after failing to stop any of the Seagulls’ penalties during the FA Cup semi-final either, De Gea’s rather dreadful track record from 12 yards is becoming another stick with which some United supporters are using to beat the increasingly error-prone goalkeeper.

Dominik Livakovic, star of Croatia’s run of the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, certainly cannot be accused of going missing in a spot-kick scenario.

The Dinamo giant was heroic as Croatia knocked out both Brazil and Japan on penalties in Qatar. Luka Modric labelled him ‘miraculous’. Another team-mate argues that Livakovic has a place alongside Alisson Becker, Thibaut Courtois and co; ‘one of the best goalkeepers in the world’.

Livakovic has a £9 million release clause in his contract. So you can see why Manchester United are keen. Even if there are concerns over whether Livakovic would actually be an upgrade on De Gea in the distribution stakes.

Will Dominik Livakovic be Erik ten Hag’s new goalkeeper?

According to Sportkse Jutarnji, Livakovic currently has no plans to extend a contract which expires in 2024. Man United, Villarreal and Fenerbahce are the three clubs to open talks so far.

United, with all due respect to Livakovic’s other suitors, are likely to be his preferred option.

“If there are offers that are good for the club and the players, then there are usually departures,” explains Igor Biscan, the former Liverpool midfielder who recently became head coach at Dinamo Zagreb (MediaServis).

“That’s how it’s always been and that’s how it is now. As a coach, I want to start the new season with the best possible team. But the reality is what it is.”

Manchester United are reportedly looking at Inter Milan’s Andre Onana, Anderlecht’s Bart Verbruggen, Brentford’s David Raya, Porto’s Diogo Costa and Odd youngster Leopold Wahlstedt.

The Daily Mail believe United may look to bring in an affordable alternative to the much-maligned De Gea. One available in the region of £15 million.

Livakovic, due to that release clause, certainly ticks that particular box.