Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has expressed his desire to extend his stay at Anfield beyond the current season, when his existing contract is set to expire. The 34-year-old Brazilian, who joined the Reds from Roma for £66.8m in 2018, has made 347 appearances for the club and remains a key figure between the sticks.
Commitment to Liverpool
In a candid interview, Alisson revealed his intention to remain at Liverpool. "Yes, in my mind, I want to stay," he said. "I'm focused on playing every game but in my mind I'm happy to stay. That depends on a lot of aspects and different situations. But my will is to stay - I'm happy here and my family is happy here. I'm still hungry for titles and to delivering good performances. I still want to play at the top level for as long as I can, so that's my thinking."
His comments come after head coach Andoni Iraola admitted last week that he was unsure whether this would be Alisson's final season at the club but hoped the goalkeeper could "continue for more time." When asked if he had held talks over a new deal, Alisson said: "No, but my agent is talking with the club."
Past Interest and Present Focus
The Brazilian shot-stopper did consider a move to Juventus earlier this year but ultimately chose to remain at Anfield. His commitment to Liverpool is evident, and his recent performances underscore his value to the team.
After a challenging week that saw Liverpool lose to Arsenal and then Fenerbahce, Alisson produced a series of crucial saves in Sunday's win at Crystal Palace. His display was a timely reminder of his world-class abilities, even as his distribution has faced scrutiny in recent weeks, notably in the defeat to Arsenal.
Seeking Consistency
Alisson acknowledges that Liverpool must find consistency to challenge for silverware. "Our reality is that we're not doing as well as we can," he admitted. "It doesn't mean that we are not doing well - we are doing well in so many games - but the consistency is not there yet. We have a top manager, top players. We are capable of great things but as a team we need to get to a point where we feel: 'We are OK now. We have the confidence. We have everything that's needed to win.' We are building that. I hope we get there really quick but it takes time. We have to be patient but as players, in our mind, we don't have time to waste."
Goalkeeping Depth and Future Decisions
Liverpool have secured the services of Giorgi Mamardashvili, 26, who is waiting in the wings, and highly rated 18-year-old Lucca Brughmans will arrive from Genk in the summer. The club is not short of goalkeeping options, but allowing Alisson to leave on a free transfer would be a significant call. His leadership within the side is undeniable, and he was named as one of Iraola's vice-captains at the start of the season.
With Virgil van Dijk's contract also set to expire at the end of the season, sporting director Julian Ward faces two important decisions regarding the futures of two players who have been constants since 2018. Both command hefty wages, but their experience is invaluable for a young Liverpool side finding its way under Iraola.
A one-year extension could be offered to Alisson, allowing Brughmans to learn from the Brazilian, but at 34, the goalkeeper may seek longer-term security. Either way, Liverpool's hierarchy will monitor his performances closely. If he continues to deliver like he did against Palace, a new contract will be a no-brainer.
