Anfield Index
·30 September 2024
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·30 September 2024
The future of Liverpool’s goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, has recently become a subject of speculation following reports linking him with a move to Bayern Munich. The 31-year-old Brazilian has been instrumental in Liverpool’s success since his arrival in 2018, but the situation surrounding his future could be more complex than it seems.
Since joining Liverpool from AS Roma for a then-record £67 million, Alisson has cemented his place among the elite goalkeepers in the world. His influence on Liverpool’s defensive solidity cannot be overstated, and he has played a pivotal role in helping the Reds win the Premier League, the Champions League, and multiple domestic cups. His shot-stopping ability, command in the box, and incredible distribution have earned him widespread recognition as one of the best in the game.
Photo: IMAGO
However, despite his significant contribution, Liverpool’s recent acquisition of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia has raised some eyebrows. According to TeamTalk, Mamardashvili’s arrival next season, coupled with ongoing links to Saudi Arabia and Barcelona, has brought Alisson’s long-term future at the club into question.
The German champions Bayern Munich are reportedly keen on Alisson, as per TeamTalk, with their manager Vincent Kompany a ‘big fan’ of the Brazilian shot-stopper. The Bavarian club’s interest stems from concerns surrounding their current number one, Manuel Neuer. The 38-year-old German international has been plagued by injuries in recent years, and Bayern may seek a long-term successor.
An offer for Alisson from Bayern would likely be hefty, given the importance of the player to Liverpool and his contract that still has several years left to run. But the key question for Liverpool is whether they would entertain such a deal, especially when considering the strength in depth that Mamardashvili brings to the table.
The arrival of Mamardashvili adds another dimension to Liverpool’s goalkeeping situation. With the Georgian goalkeeper highly rated across Europe, he could challenge Alisson for the starting spot or potentially step in if the Brazilian leaves. Liverpool also has Republic of Ireland international Caoimhin Kelleher, who has proven to be a reliable backup for Alisson over the years.
Photo: IMAGO
Kelleher’s future, however, is also uncertain. The 25-year-old made it clear that he wants to be a first-choice goalkeeper elsewhere, stating, “I’ve made it clear in the last few years that I want to go and be a No. 1 and play week in, week out.” If Alisson were to depart, Kelleher could reconsider his decision, especially with Arne Slot at the helm, and potentially establish himself as Liverpool’s number one.
But for now, Liverpool is facing a potential goalkeeper dilemma: retain Alisson and risk losing Kelleher or make a significant decision to sell Alisson and usher in a new era between the posts with Mamardashvili and Kelleher.
Aside from the goalkeeper situation, Liverpool is also involved in other transfer battles. Manchester United and Newcastle are vying for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, but it’s reported that Liverpool could be his preferred destination if Virgil van Dijk does not extend his contract beyond next summer. Liverpool is also monitoring talented young winger Thiago Fernandez from Velez Sarsfield and Sevilla’s versatile Juanlu Sanchez, but it remains to be seen whether these will materialise into concrete offers.
From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, Alisson leaving would undoubtedly be a bitter pill to swallow. He has been a rock at the back, making vital saves in crucial moments and leading the defence with authority. However, the potential of a Bayern Munich bid does pose an interesting dilemma for Liverpool. If Bayern’s offer is significantly high, the club could capitalise financially while having Mamardashvili as a ready-made replacement. Fans will also be aware that Kelleher, though keen to move on, could be swayed by the prospect of becoming the new first-choice keeper at Anfield under Arne Slot.
That said, many supporters would argue that selling Alisson is a risk that Liverpool should not take lightly. The Brazilian’s quality is rare, and even with a solid replacement in Mamardashvili, the gap in experience and leadership could affect Liverpool’s ambitions in the Premier League and Europe. Liverpool fans would likely hope that the club retains Alisson while finding a solution that keeps Kelleher happy. Stability in the goalkeeping department has been a key factor in Liverpool’s recent successes, and disrupting that might have long-term consequences.
As always, Liverpool’s transfer dealings are meticulously planned, and the club’s management will weigh all options carefully before making any significant decisions. But one thing is clear: the next few transfer windows could see some significant changes in Liverpool’s goalkeeping ranks.
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