Liverpool is on the hunt for a new goalkeeper following Adrian's departure, with the club now eyeing another Brazilian talent.
Liverpool is on the hunt for a new goalkeeper following Adrian’s departure, with the club now eyeing another Brazilian talent.
Adrian, who had been offered a one-year extension at Anfield, has decided to move on, with his contract expiring on Monday. The 37-year-old Spaniard is reportedly set to return to his boyhood club, Real Betis, in LaLiga.
According to Diario de Sevilla, Adrian’s return to Real Betis is “tied up.” Contrary to taking a backseat, Adrian aims to compete for the No. 1 spot. This move will be announced once his contract with Liverpool officially ends next week. Adrian’s departure follows those of Thiago and Joel Matip, both of whom are leaving on free transfers.
Additionally, Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to seek regular starting opportunities elsewhere, pushing Liverpool to explore the transfer market for goalkeeping options. Reports from Brazilian outlet Globo indicate Liverpool’s interest in 25-year-old Athletico Paranaense goalkeeper Bento. Inter Milan was initially poised to sign the two-cap Brazil international but has shifted its focus to Genoa’s Josep Martinez.
This change has opened the door for Liverpool, Sporting CP, and Benfica to express interest in Bento, who is valued at over €15 million (£12.7m). Athletico Paranaense is willing to entertain offers for Bento, though they intend to keep him if their asking price is not met.
Bento, who debuted for Athletico in 2020 and became the first choice two years later, has made 163 appearances for the club, which currently sits sixth in the Brazilian top flight. His 2024 stats are impressive, with 26 games, 13 clean sheets, and only 16 goals conceded. Bento earned his first call-up to the Brazil national team in 2023 and made his debut in a 1-0 friendly win over England in March 2024. He is currently part of Brazil’s Copa America squad, serving as backup to Liverpool’s Alisson.
Liverpool’s interest in Bento is influenced by their strong Brazilian connection. Goalkeeper Alisson and goalkeeping coach Claudio Taffarel, who is also part of Brazil’s national team staff, could play a crucial role in this potential transfer. With John Achterberg stepping down as head of goalkeeping this summer, Taffarel’s insights are likely to be more influential in identifying new goalkeeping targets. At Liverpool, 21-year-old Marcelo Pitaluga adds to the Brazilian goalkeeping contingent, further strengthening this connection.
As Liverpool navigates these transitions, the club’s Brazilian ties and Taffarel’s input may shape their next moves in the goalkeeping department.
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