Liverpool confirmed a new contract for Adrian on Monday. One journalist outlined what this means for the Reds’ squad.
A new contract for Adrian is Monday’s big news at Liverpool. The Spaniard will remain with the Reds for another two years.
His contract was set to expire this summer and we, admittedly, thought he’d be off. Instead, he’ll be a Liverpool player for the foreseeable future.
“I’m delighted, I’m very happy to stay in the club,” Adrian told Liverpoolfc.com.
“Firstly, because it’s a reward from the club for the hard work that I’ve been doing since I signed two years ago. I really appreciate that confidence from the club, from the manager and from everyone involved in that situation.
“And secondly, and above all of that, it’s a pleasure to stay in Liverpool – it’s such a big club. But being as well a family club, it’s very special for any player to stay here. I am privileged.”
Liverpool confirm new contract for Adrian
It’s an interesting one given the goalkeeping situation at Liverpool. We’ve seen some conflicting reports around it over the last month or two.
The Athletic, for instance, previously said Adrian would leave this summer. The Daily Mail perhaps got the situation right, though.
They claimed Liverpool were looking around to replace Adrian with a free transfer. They couldn’t find anyone, however, and offered the Spaniard a new deal.
The later made another claim, however, saying that Adrian would effectively receive a promotion alongside the renewal. That’s because Caoimhin Kelleher, who usurped Adrian as the club’s no.2 last season, would go out on loan.
The 34-year-old would then return to his backup role, rather than the third-choice role of last season.
But that might not be right, according to journalist James Pearce.
Liverpool pecking order
Pearce tweeted after the news that Adrian would remain as a no.3. Kelleher won’t leave on loan and instead retains his place as backup behind Alisson.
The Brazilian will then also get a contract renewal to cement his place as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Another line in the tweet tells us why Adrian will stick around – Jurgen Klopp sees him as a popular figure at the club. This is essentially a squad move, then.
It keeps the unit intact with someone well-liked and eliminates the need to introduce anyone new. Given it costs the club next to nothing, it’s hard to complain about that.
Especially as Kelleher looks like a top prospect in the no.2 role.