Jadran Herceg Novi have officially confirmed the return of Daniil Merkulov ahead of the 2025–26 season.
The 27-year-old Russian left-hander, who previously played for the Montenegrin club earlier in his career, rejoins Jadran after a single season with Rari Nantes Savona in Italy. Merkulov brings with him a wealth of experience from stints at Jug Dubrovnik, FTC-Telekom Budapest, and most recently in Serie A1, where he was seen as a key part of Savona’s ambitions to challenge Pro Recco.
Born in Moscow on 3 March 1997, Merkulov is known for his powerful outside shooting and sharp goal-scoring instincts. Capped 23 times for Russia, he adds significant firepower and Champions League pedigree to Jadran’s roster as the club looks to make a deeper impact in Europe this coming season.
Merkulov’s arrival marks the second major signing announced by Jadran this summer. Earlier this month, the club confirmed the return of goalkeeper Lazar Andrić. The 30-year-old left Jadran in 2013 to pursue an NCAA career in the United States, where he represented Long Beach City College and UC Berkeley. He later joined the Olympic Club in San Francisco before moving to Montpellier in France, where he has played since 2019.
Andrić notably stepped up for the Montenegrin national team at the World Cup Final Eight in Podgorica, where he was the sole goalkeeper after Petar Tešanović fell ill on the eve of the tournament.
Waterpolo 360’s Confirmed Transfers and Gossip Page
Follow Waterpolo 360 on Facebook, Instagram and X