Liverpool are keeping a close eye on the performances of young Anderlecht goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
Verbruggen has impressively matured into his team’s first choice ‘keeper over the course of the season. And according to Belgian outlet Het Laatste Nieuws, his displays have caught the eye of the Reds.
They’re not the only ones interested, though. Manchester United are also said to be paying close attention to the 20-year-old. Meanwhile, Burnley reportedly already tried to sign him in January.
Anderlecht, for their part, are claimed to be keen to keep hold of Verbruggen for a little longer. However, ‘financial reason’ could mean they don’t have too much choice in the matter.
In terms of a fee, Verbruggen is reportedly ‘certain’ to fetch at least £9m should he leave Brussels this summer.
Liverpool looking to secure Kelleher successor?
Now we’re talking. This is exactly the kind of player Liverpool should be targeting to fill the spot of the potentially outgoing Caoimhin Kelleher.
Verbruggen is one of the continent’s top goalkeeping prospects. Already a regular for Anderlecht, he’s even already been called into the Netherlands national squad. If Liverpool can get him as back-up to Alisson Becker, he’s even still young enough to take over from him in the future.
At £9m he wouldn’t break the bank at all, and should represent excellent value for money. In a summer where Liverpool’s budget is being blown elsewhere, that shouldn’t be sniffed at.
Judging from the words of Anderlecht goalkeeping coach Frank Boeckx, the Reds would be signing a gem.
“He’s very mature at 20. He succeeded Hendrik Van Crombrugge – the captain, an important pivot in the dressing room and a big name – without a hitch. That shows how strong he is mentally,” Boeckx told Sporza in February.
“His footballing qualities are also exceptional – the way he sees passes and can execute them, both short and long. His athleticism is also very good. He has all the qualities of a modern goalkeeper.”
Sounds good to us!