Barcelona signs Ajax goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen

Ajax's goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen. (Francois Mori/AP)

BARCELONA, Spain — Barcelona has signed Netherlands goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen, clearing the way for Claudio Bravo to complete his move to Manchester City.

Barcelona announced the transfers of both ‘keepers on Thursday, signing Cillessen before finalizing the sale of Bravo.

The Spanish champion says Cillessen agreed to a five-year contract after securing his transfer from Dutch club Ajax for 13 million euros ($14.6 million) plus a possible 2 million euros ($2.25 million) in variables.

Barcelona says it will receive 18 million euros ($20.3 million) for Bravo, plus a possible 2 million euros ($2.25 million) in variables, from City.

Barcelona had been expected to part ways with Bravo since its sports director said on Saturday it had a "deal in principle" with City.

The 33-year-old Bravo helped Barcelona win the Spanish league in his two seasons at the club.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen has been Barcelona’s ‘keeper in the Champions League and Copa del Rey. It is expected he will now be its first-choice player in La Liga.

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