Liverpool are in need of doing one or two small adjustments to the squad this summer.
As usual, it doesn’t seem as though the Reds are going to be overly active in the transfer market.
Nevertheless, Arne Slot does need a couple of additions to make sure Liverpool retain their competitiveness into the new season.
One of those changes is set to happen in the goalkeeping department. With Caoimhin Kelleher expressing a desire to leave, Slot will need a new no.2.
While the problem could be solved by promoting youth team ‘keeper Vitezslav Jaros, another option is delving into the market. And it seems that Liverpool are exploring all options.
Liverpool interested in Brazil’s Bento
Signing a back-up goalkeeper is never a straightforward task. Liverpool know that all too well having struggled to find rhythm before the arrival of Adrian and Kelleher’s ascension from the academy.
Adrian, it must be said, was an example of how bringing in a back-up should go. The Spaniard was 32 at the time of joining and was never going to replace Alisson Becker.
Despite that, he was a serviceable ‘keeper who had bags of Premier League experience. On a free transfer, there’s not much more that could have been asked of Adrian.
Although they had success with the former West Ham goalie, it looks like Liverpool are going to go in the opposite direction this time.
Sports Zone claim that the Reds are targeting 24-year-old Brazil ‘keeper Bento Krepski. Bento is potentially a goalkeeper who could succeed Alisson, rather than someone to come in as a permanent back-up.
As a result of his potential though, there is reportedly plenty of competition for Bento.
It’s claimed that Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan and AC Milan all join Liverpool in ‘following him closely.’ For his part, Bento is said to be ‘ready to come to Europe’ from current club Athletico Paranense.
Bento already familiar with Liverpool coaching staff
Bento would be a really interesting addition for Liverpool. In Kelleher’s age range, he could play back-up before one day perhaps succeeding Alisson. At a reported price of £17m, he wouldn’t break the bank either.
One thing which should however be noted is that the Brazil international is very much first choice for his club. Having already played over 160 times for Paranense, it remains to be seen whether Bento would be happy to drop to second choice.
What could work in Liverpool’s favour though, is that the goalkeeper is already familiar with Reds coach Claudio Taffarel.
As seen on Bento’s Instagram page, he was training with Taffarel during his call-up to the national team in March.
Alisson is still yet to work with Bento having been injured for those friendlies. With both ‘keepers called up for this summer’s Copa America though, and Taffarel going with them, maybe Liverpool can get the edge over the competition.