Liverpool identify Real Madrid star Andriy Lunin to replace Alisson Becker
According to HITC (h/t Liverpool Echo), Liverpool have earmarked Real Madrid star Andriy Lunin to replace Alisson Becker should the Brazilian leave Anfield this summer.
The Samba star is arguably the best goalkeeper in world football and was a key cog in Jurgen Klopp’s all-conquering side that won the set at Anfield. At 31, Alisson is still young for a shot-stopper but continues to be linked with a move away, especially given the interest from Saudi Arabia.
While there is no concrete information that the veteran wants out, it is only natural that the club have a list of potential replacements should the worst come to pass. Replacing Alisson is no easy task but Liverpool believe Lunin is the man for the job.
The 25-year-old started the 2023-24 campaign as Real Madrid’s third-choice goalkeeper but injuries to Thibaut Courtois and Kepa Arrizabalaga opened up an opportunity and Lunin was quick to seize it.
Lunin’s impact was especially felt in the UEFA Champions League. The Ukrainian international enjoyed match-winning performances against SC Braga, RB Leipzig and Manchester City as Los Blancos secured their 15th continental crown.
With Courtois now back fit, it is debatable if Lunin will retain his starting spot at the Santiago Bernabeu. While he remains an able deputy, it remains to be seen if he is willing to take the step down having proven his worth in high-stakes situations.
Lunin is not the only goalkeeper on Liverpool’s radar. Feyenoord’s Justin Bijlow is also being monitored and his history with Arne Slot will ensue the rumours don’t die done anytime soon.
It will be a summer of change at Anfield especially in the goalkeeping department. Adrian has already left for Real Betis while Caoimhin Kelleher is seeking regular playing time elsewhere. Vítězslav Jaroš has already replaced Adrian as third-choice goalkeeper but losing Kelleher will mean the Reds need to bring in an able understudy to Alisson.
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The ideal scenario for Liverpool will be for Alisson to stay put while Lunin or Bijlow replace Kelleher should the Irishman depart Anfield. As far as Alisson’s future goes, we would suggest the reports be taken with a pinch of salt. Unless it comes out of the horse’s mouth, there is little to suggest the Brazilian shot-stopper is keen to call it quits on Merseyside.
