APOEL Nicosia signs goalkeeper Oliver Zelenika from NK Varaždin

APOEL Nicosia has officially secured the transfer of 33-year-old goalkeeper Oliver Zelenika from the Croatian club NK Varaždin. The move, confirmed by the Croatian side on August 26, 2026, marks the end of Zelenika's six-year tenure at Varaždin, where he served as team captain for the final two years. During his time with the club, he recorded 157 appearances and was instrumental in leading the team to two consecutive European tournament qualifications and a historic third-place finish in the league.

Technical staff at APOEL, including Zisis Vryzas and Nikos Papadopoulos, identified Zelenika as the ideal candidate to strengthen their squad following the collapse of negotiations with Karlo Letica. The 1.92-meter-tall goalkeeper arrives in Nicosia to provide competition for incumbent goalkeeper Vid Belec. According to reports, the decision was driven by budget constraints and the need to add experience to the roster. As the club continues to search for further reinforcements in the attacking and midfield positions, Zelenika's signing is viewed as a strategic move to bolster the team's defensive security for the upcoming season.