Adrian Likely to Depart Liverpool for LaLiga, Despite New Contract Offer

Despite Liverpool’s offer of a one-year contract extension, reports from Spain suggest that third-choice goalkeeper Adrian is set to leave Anfield for a return to LaLiga.

Adrian’s current contract with Liverpool expires at the end of the month, after which he would become a free agent. Liverpool hoped to retain the 37-year-old for another season, recently confirming a new contract proposal. However, Adrian had previously expressed his desire to return to Spain, describing it as “the end of a cycle” last month.

It now appears more likely that Adrian will decline Liverpool’s offer to rejoin his boyhood club, Real Betis. Mundo Deportivo reports that Adrian has “put aside” Liverpool’s contract in favor of a move to Betis.

At Real Betis, Adrian would replace Claudio Bravo, who is leaving on a free transfer, and serve as a backup to first-choice goalkeeper Rui Silva and alternate option Fran Vieites, mirroring his role at Liverpool. Conversations between Adrian and Real Betis have reportedly already taken place, with the veteran being free to negotiate with clubs outside England since January.

Adrian’s career began at Real Betis, where he spent 15 years, including a season as the starting goalkeeper, before moving to the Premier League with West Ham in 2013.

Implications for Liverpool’s Goalkeeping Roster

If Adrian rejects Liverpool’s offer, the club would need to enter the transfer market for a new third-choice goalkeeper. This comes at a time when they might also need to find a replacement for Caoimhin Kelleher, the current No. 2, who has expressed a desire for regular first-team football, potentially away from Liverpool.

Retaining Adrian would have provided stability, especially given the recent departures of goalkeeping coaches John Achterberg and Jack Robinson. Bringing in new No. 2 and No. 3 goalkeepers, along with restructuring the coaching staff, would signify a major overhaul, coinciding with the arrival of new head coach Arne Slot.

Potential Homegrown Solution

Liverpool has been linked with English goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, 34, who could leave Southampton as a free agent. McCarthy, who has been offered a new deal at St Mary’s, might find the prospect of replacing Adrian appealing. His status as a homegrown player would be beneficial for Liverpool, especially if Kelleher departs.

Another option for Liverpool could be promoting academy graduate Vitezslav Jaros, 22, who impressed on loan at Sturm Graz last season. Jaros, also eligible as a homegrown player, could be considered for a role in the first-team squad.

In summary, while Adrian’s departure would necessitate changes, Liverpool has several potential solutions to ensure their goalkeeping department remains robust for the upcoming season.