Liverpool’s Alisson has been backed to make an exit despite getting a new deal two months ago.
Sport Witness have extensively covered Italian interest in the goalkeeper over the past few weeks. Juventus have appeared most keen, having almost agreed personal terms with the Brazilian.
Juve are soon expected to speak to Liverpool, whose demands to let the keeper leave will be high.
The Turin club are keen on signing a goalkeeper in the summer, amidst doubts about Michele Di Gregorio about Mattia Perin. Alisson is seen as the ideal option, having played under Luciano Spalletti at AS Roma.
Age not a problem
Goalkeeping legend Edwin Van Der Sar spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport in a detailed interview. He was asked about Juve’s goalkeeping struggles and how they could fare with the Liverpool veteran in goal.
He described the Brazilian as ‘top-notch’ and someone who can make a mark in Turin.
“Alisson is a top-notch goalkeeper, one of the best in the world. I’ve admired him in recent years at Liverpool. Transfer rumors are never pleasant for a player or a goalkeeper, but if Juventus is considering a move, Alisson could be a reliable option.
“We’re talking about a top player. Having already played in Italy with Roma, if necessary, will help him.”
Van Der Sar was also questioned whether Alisson’s age might hold him back at the Old Lady.
Refusing the idea, the Dutchman said:
“Yes, it’s a question of confidence and serenity. The fact that Alisson is almost 34 isn’t a problem; on the contrary: there are many goalkeepers who play at a high level at an advanced age.”
Van Der Sar also gave his own example, as he left Manchester United at the age of 40.
“Buffon retired at 45, I played my last season at Manchester United at 40.”
Our take: Alisson may push for Juve
Alisson’s prominence at Liverpool has reduced this season. Injuries have been a reason for that but Giorgi Mamardashvili has shown he is capable of being first-choice.
This won’t be the same in Turin, where he could be the undisputed regular under a manager he knows well.
Spalletti’s time at Napoli shows his ability to drag teams to silverware. Juve will need that and a player of Alisson’s calibre will go a long way to helping.