EXCLUSIVE: Former Liverpool goalkeeper David James on Alisson Becker's future and the task facing Andoni Iraola at Anfield with a few days left of the summer transfer window
Andoni Iraola emerges before a Liverpool training session.
Andoni Iraola emerges before a Liverpool training session. (Image: Nikki Dyer/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Former Liverpool goalkeeper David James believes Alisson Becker is still playing at a very high level, and should therefore be offered a contract extension before his existing deal expires next summer.
Juventus was keen on the Brazilian earlier in this transfer window and could return for him in the future, while Giorgi Mamardashvili, who arrived from Valencia a year ago, is yet to fully convince in terms of taking on the number one jersey.
James says Liverpool should prioritize keeping Alisson, who turns 34 in October, for as long as it can, as he remains one of the best all-around goalkeepers in the world.
"I think Liverpool should definitely hand him an extension," James tells Liverpool.com.
"Alisson has been my favorite goalkeeper in the league for a number of years now, and the team needs someone behind them who they feel confident in.
"But his contract situation needs sorting out as soon as possible. We’ve seen at Liverpool over the last few years players running out of contract and leaving for free, and I don’t think they can let that happen with Alisson."
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 16: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Alisson Becker of Liverpool acknowledges the fans after the pre-season friendly match between Liverpool FC and Como Calcio at Anfield on August 16, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Alisson Becker acknowledges the Liverpool supporters after the win over Como (Image: Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Alisson was beaten twice on the opening weekend of the new season as Liverpool dropped points at Newcastle, but James says the team's performance shouldn't be too much of a downer at this stage.
"I think the first game of the season, being Newcastle away after Kevin Keegan’s passing, affected more of the players on both teams than what people realize," James, speaking on behalf of Live Football Tickets, added.
"I do think there was a lot to be pleased about in Liverpool’s performance on Sunday. I think the expectations this season are lower as they aren’t coming off the back of winning the Premier League as they were last season.
"I also think that Liverpool are entitled to have a grace period before people should judge them, as they have lost some key players and gained a new manager.
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"They will be aiming to challenge for the Premier League title, but I think qualifying for the Champions League is a must. If they can go far and compete for domestic trophies and the Champions League, on top of that, then that would be brilliant.
"Liverpool fans and those in charge at the club demand trophies. They will be expecting to see the squad compete with the very best this season.
"Andoni Iraola only has a two-year contract, which says to me the club are looking to be flexible. If they find success under Iraola over the next two seasons, they’ll extend him, but if they don’t, they can move on from him.
"Competing for trophies and staying consistent across all competitions is very important for Liverpool’s and Iraola’s future."