Liverpool have been linked with yet another player from Real Madrid during this summer’s transfer window. Recently, names such as Arda Guler and Rodrygo have emerged as potential targets for the Reds, though these transfers appear quite unlikely.
According to Graeme Bailey, writing for HITC, Liverpool is now contemplating a move for Andriy Lunin as a potential replacement for either Alisson Becker or Caoimhin Kelleher. There have been reports, notably from TEAMtalk, suggesting that Alisson is attracting interest from Saudi Pro League clubs. Meanwhile, Kelleher has hinted at his desire to become a first-choice goalkeeper, something that seems less likely to happen if he stays at Liverpool.
Lunin, who had a challenging Euro 2024, made a couple of significant errors in Ukraine’s 3-0 defeat to Romania, leading to him losing his starting position to Anatoliy Trubin. Despite this recent setback, Lunin played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s Champions League success last season. He was called upon in the absence of Thibaut Courtois and rose to the occasion, playing eight matches and performing admirably. One of his standout moments came during the quarter-final against Manchester City, where he saved two penalties in a shootout win.
At 25 years old, Lunin is entering the final year of his contract with Real Madrid. His future at the club looks uncertain, especially with Courtois now fully fit and reclaiming his spot as the first-choice goalkeeper. Given this situation, Lunin might find himself struggling for game time in the upcoming season.
While Lunin may not be on the same level as Alisson, who Liverpool is keen to retain despite the interest from Saudi Arabia, he could serve as a dependable backup if Kelleher decides to leave. The prospect of signing Lunin might hinge on the departure of one of Liverpool’s current goalkeepers. If such a departure occurs, it is expected that Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, would move quickly to secure Lunin’s services.
In essence, Liverpool’s goalkeeping situation is at a potential turning point. The club faces the possibility of losing either Alisson or Kelleher, and Lunin has emerged as a viable candidate to fill any resulting void. Lunin’s recent performance at Euro 2024 might raise some concerns, but his contributions to Real Madrid’s Champions League campaign last season highlight his capability under pressure. The upcoming transfer decisions will be crucial for Liverpool as they navigate the potential changes in their goalkeeping roster, aiming to maintain a strong and reliable presence between the posts.
