Brendan Rodgers has identified Sunderland’s Simon Mignolet as his first choice transfer target to replace Pepe Reina.
Liverpool have been linked with numerous goalkeepers over the past few months; with Stoke’s Asmir Begovic and Reading’s Alex McCarthy rumoured to be on Rodger’s radar; however Mignolet appears to have been given the nod.
The Belgain shot stopper was instrumental in helping to keep the Black Cats in the Premier League last season and his form hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Manchester United were heavily linked with Mignolet at one point, however the form of David De Gea means their summer wish list doesn’t involve a goalkeeper.
Reina
Liverpool will make the move even if Reina doesn’t complete his expected move away from Anfield.
Reina had looked set to join Barcelona before Victor Valdes announced he’ll remain with the club for another year. The news meant that Barca aren’t in the market for a goalkeeper at the moment unless Reina would be happy to sit on the bench for 12 months.
Two years ago Reina appeared irreplaceable at Anfield, however his form has been poor of late and suffered a poor 2012-13 campaign. Although he will remain a Liverpool legend, both parties appear to be happy to go their separate ways.
Striking department
Liverpool look certain to be without both Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez for the start of the 2013-14 season.
Sturridge was injured on international duty for England and is expected to be out for three months. Whilst the want-away Suarez won’t be available for selection even if he still is a Liverpool player given his 10-match ban for biting Branislav Ivanovic last year.
