Liverpool Transfer News: Victor Valdes Wanted Amid Marc-Andre Ter Stegen Rumours

Manchester United's Victor Valdes is reportedly Liverpool's No. 1 goalkeeping transfer target—despite rumours linking them to Barcelona stopper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

That's according to Spanish outlet Don Balon (h/t James Phillips of the Daily Star), with Phillips noting Valdes has been reduced to training with United's reserves and has not even been given a squad number by manager Louis van Gaal.

The Spaniard was Barca's No. 1 'keeper for over a decade and won countless trophies including six La Liga titles and three UEFA Champions Leagues.

As Spanish football expert Sergi Dominguez notes, the 33-year-old had a reputation for making the occasional gaffe but nevertheless is revered among Blaugrana fans for his years of service:

Though Liverpool fans would normally be reticent to welcome a player from Old Trafford to Anfield, Valdes has made just three first-team appearances for the Red Devils, so that wouldn't likely be a significant issue for many Reds fans.

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Indeed, should Liverpool snap him up and he be a success, they could well relish the fact that he was wasted at United, particularly during the David De Gea saga in the summer that saw the Spaniard dropped in favour of Sergio Romero.

Valdes' years of experience and almost unparalleled success make him a strong target for clubs hoping to improve on their current 'keeper.

However, Ter Stegen is a stronger candidate still.

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The 23-year-old is one of the most exciting young goalkeeping talents in Europe, known for his exceptional control of the ball and outstanding distribution, per football journalist Dermot Corrigan:

For further proof, check out his Manuel Neuer-esque turn in the Champions League on Wednesday, courtesy of BT Sport Football:

The German is currently alternated with Claudio Bravo in Barcelona's goal—the former usually utilised in cup competitions and Europe, the latter in La Liga.

The prospect of more regular football could tempt Ter Stegen, but with Bravo now 32 Barca will be reluctant to part with their ready-made, long-term replacement.

Valdes—whose exit from United is now inevitable—is therefore a much more achievable target, which explains his reported status as the Reds' No. 1 choice.

Simon Mignolet is currently proving a fairly steady figure between the sticks after a rocky patch in the first half of last season, with 13 Premier League clean sheets in 2015 attests, but Valdes' experience and ability would add valuable competition for the 27-year-old.