Liverpool Football Club has once again emerged in the midst of transfer speculation, this time regarding their interest in Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin during the current summer window. While names like Arda Guler and Rodrygo have been floated as potential targets for the Reds lately, the feasibility of such acquisitions remains questionable.
Reports from Graeme Bailey at HITC indicate that Liverpool is contemplating a move for Andriy Lunin, possibly as a replacement for either Alisson Becker or Caoimhin Kelleher. Alisson, a cornerstone in Liverpool’s squad, has reportedly attracted interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League, as per TEAMtalk. Meanwhile, Kelleher has expressed aspirations to secure a starting role as a goalkeeper elsewhere.
Andriy Lunin faced a challenging Euro 2024 campaign, marked by notable errors in Ukraine’s 3-0 defeat against Romania, which led to him losing his starting spot to Anatoliy Trubin. Despite this setback, Lunin played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s recent Champions League triumph. During Thibaut Courtois’ absence, he admirably stepped in, notably saving two penalties in the dramatic shootout victory over Manchester City in the quarter-finals.
At 25 years old, Lunin finds himself in the final year of his contract with Real Madrid. With Courtois now fully fit, Lunin might face stiff competition for playing time in the upcoming season. Although he may not yet match the stature of Alisson, whom Liverpool is keen on retaining despite outside interest, Lunin could offer reliable backup should Kelleher depart.
Any potential move for Lunin would likely hinge on player departures from Anfield beforehand. However, if such a scenario unfolds, Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes would be expected to act swiftly to secure Lunin’s services.
In conclusion, while Liverpool’s pursuit of Andriy Lunin remains contingent on several factors, including the futures of Alisson and Kelleher, the club appears poised to consider all options to strengthen their goalkeeping depth ahead of the new season.