Liverpool view 25-year-old goalkeeper wanted by Arsenal as replacement if Alisson joins Saudi league: Reports
Liverpool are reportedly interested in Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, who is hot on Arsenal's radar following an impressive season at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Ukrainian shot-stopper filled in superbly for the injured Thibaut Courtois, but his future could lie away from the Spanish capital.
English journalist Graeme Bailey (via TEAMTalk) reports that Arne Slot has set his sights on Lunin in case Alisson Becker departs. The Brazilian goalkeeper is linked with the Saudi Pro League despite having three years left on his contract.
Alisson, 31, has constantly reaffirmed his commitment to Liverpool despite suggestions he may leave. Al-Nassr are said to have him listed as their top target to become their new No.1.
Lunin was excellent for Madrid last season, while Courtois was sidelined with an ACL injury. He kept 12 clean sheets in 31 games across competitions, and many felt he'd performed well enough to keep the No.1 jersey.
Arsenal are also interested in the 13-cap Ukraine international as question marks continue to grow over Aaron Ramsdale's future. He could arrive at the Emirates as competition for David Raya who has permanently joined the Gunners.
Lunin is reportedly unsure about his future at the Bernabeu and whether to sign a contract proposal put to him by the La Liga giants, per Managing Madrid. His current deal expires in 2025, but he wants first-team opportunities that have passed him by when Courtois has been fit.
"I have to work very hard" - Liverpool's Alisson on wanting to become the best goalkeeper in the world
Alisson has long been regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in world football. He first caught the eye at AS Roma, where his heroics helped the Serie A side to the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League in 2018.
The 71-cap Brazil international moved to Liverpool later that summer and became arguably the best modern-day Premier League shot-stopper. He's kept 114 clean sheets in 263 games at Anfield, and his consistency was key in their 2020 title triumph.
Alisson delved into his mentality of wanting to become the best goalkeeper. He highlighted how important training is before game time (via Sport Witness):
"Longevity is linked to consistency. I always want to be the best goalkeeper in Brazil, England and the world... Training is fundamental to that. Once your career reaches a certain point, you realize that other choices make a difference. I have to work very hard to arrive at matches well prepared."
If Alisson were to leave Liverpool, it could be as significant as Jurgen Klopp's departure. He's been the Merseysiders' No.1 for six years and has produced some stunning performances.