Liverpool and Arsenal targeting the Dutch star to bolster their Last line of defence
According to recent reports, Arsenal are ready to rival Liverpool for the transfer of Feyenoord’s goalkeeper, Justin Bijlow. Since Aaron Ramsdale is ready to depart the team this summer, Gunners manager Mikel Arteta is searching for a replacement in the number two position.
Manchester United had an interest in Dutch international Bijlow over the summer, but they were put off by the £22 million asking price. But, with two years remaining on his contract and a few injury setbacks, Bijlow may potentially be available for roughly £10 million. He is no longer the Dutch No. 1 player, but he is still highly rated.
Although Slot has great confidence in Bijlow’s skills, Liverpool was already watching the goalie throughout Feyenoord’s Champions League games this season, so their interest in him existed before the new head coach arrived on Merseyside.
Liverpool needs a new number 2
Alisson Becker is without a doubt Liverpool’s best player, while Caoimhin Kelleher‘s future is in jeopardy due to the club’s connections with Bijlow. The 25-year-old Ireland international is eager for a new challenge, having been one of the Premier League’s most dependable no. 2s for a number of years.
When healthy, Bijlow leads Feyenoord in goalkeeping, although he missed nearly half of the season due to two different injuries: a calf strain and a fractured wrist. In addition to being a dedicated sweeper-keeper, he has a strong track record of winning crosses.
Kelleher gave out a number of outstanding performances this season while replacing number 1, Alisson Becker. He now wants to move on to new challenges as the team’s number one which he cannot be staying at Liverpool.
When healthy, Alisson will always compete in the main leagues. Although Kelleher’s senior colleague is slightly more prone to injuries than any typical goalkeeper, the Irishman cannot rely on them.
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Getting the Irish number two to remain should be Slot’s first objective. However, given that Liverpool has been keeping an eye on him for some time, perhaps a reunion with Bijlow could be the solution if Kelleher is intent on moving on.
