Liverpool Transfer News: Jiri Pavlenka, Yann Sommer Targeted in Latest Rumours
June 20, 2018
Liverpool have reportedly turned their attention to the Bundesliga duo of Jiri Pavlenka and Yann Sommer in their search for a new goalkeeper.
According to Bild (h/t the Express' Charlie Malam), the high asking prices for AS Roma's Alisson Becker and Atletico Madrid's Jan Oblak will result in the Reds looking elsewhere. Switzerland international Sommer was a standout in the 1-1 World Cup draw against Brazil, and Czech stopper Pavlenka would likely be the cheapest alternative.
Malam also stated Loris Karius is expected to contend for the top spot in goal next season, but his stock has fallen since his two blunders in the UEFA Champions League final loss against Real Madrid.
Liverpool were widely expected to address the position this summer, but the prices for goalkeepers have soared of late, complicating matters. According to the report, Sommer would cost the Reds roughly €30 million (£26.3 million).
The 29-year-old made the move to Monchengladbach in 2014 and has been impressive for the club ever since. Die Fohlen have invested heavily in the Swiss market and previously sold Granit Xhaka to Arsenal.
Sommer drew praise for his showing against Brazil, where he was only beaten by a stunning strike from Philippe Coutinho:
Pavlenka only joined Werder Bremen last summer but was a key player in their solid campaign, starting all 34 matches. At 26 years old, he's finally making a name for himself after spending the first years of his career in his native Czech Republic.
Per the Bundesliga's official website, he's seen as the natural heir to Arsenal stopper Petr Cech and was given the nickname of "gloved guardian angel" by the German press.
He could be a solid replacement for Simon Mignolet, who is expected to leave the club, Malam added.