Barcelona Goalkeeper Aaron Jakovishvili Nears Transfer to Almeria for More Playing Time

Aaron Jakovishvili, the 20-year-old Jewish-Hungarian goalkeeper from Barcelona, is close to finalizing a move to Almeria. Despite Barcelona's desire to keep him, Jakovishvili has chosen to join the Andalusian club, which was relegated last season and aims to return to La Liga. Almeria is expected to pay between 2 and 3 million euros for the young goalkeeper, while Barcelona will retain a significant share of his future transfer rights, estimated between 50% and 60%.

Jakovishvili opted for Almeria's project under coach Xavi Garcia Pimienta to secure more first-team playing opportunities and gain experience as a starting goalkeeper. Last season, he was loaned to Andorra, where he became a regular starter for an extended period. Upon returning to Barcelona, he participated in preseason training with the senior team and impressed during a friendly match in Birmingham by saving two penalties in a shootout.

Although Barcelona wanted to keep him in their squad, Jakovishvili preferred to leave to guarantee a central role on the field. Following his expected departure, Barcelona plans to rotate the third goalkeeper position between 19-year-old Adr Elr and 18-year-old Iker Rodriguez, who will also continue playing for Barcelona Athletic.