Liverpool have reportedly shifted their focus towards Neil Etheridge as a potential backup to Alisson and have submitted an initial enquiry for the Cardiff star.
Wales Online have claimed that Liverpool have made an enquiry to Cardiff for their goalkeeper Neil Etheridge. The former Chelsea youth star has impressed with his outings in the 2018-19 Premier League season and seems to have caught the attention of other clubs.
The report does add that Liverpool are yet to make a formal approach to Cardiff for the Philippines international. Wales Online further state that Aston Villa are currently in the lead after having submitted an £8 million bid to recently relegated Cardiff for Etheridge, which was swiftly knocked back by the club. But, the Lions are looking to return with an improved offer.
Cardiff may have perished from the Premier League at the end of the 2018-19 season. But, Etheridge was one of the brightest spots to emerge from the disappointing campaign, with the London-born 29-year-old recording 10 clean sheets in the league. And while Cardiff conceded 69 goals, the number may have been considerably more had Etheridge not been in the form he was.
His performances have drawn a lot of praise and now, interest from other clubs, with Etheridge himself likely to look to retain his Premier League status despite Cardiff’s relegation. Liverpool seem interested in the 29-year-old.
The new Champions League winners have, in Alisson, one of the best goalkeepers in the world right now. But, there is no able deputy, with Simon Mignolet set to be sold in the summer. Loris Karius seems happy to continue his loan stint at Besiktas, leaving Liverpool with a dilemma as far as an able backup to Alisson is concerned.
While Liverpool have also been linked to David Marshall, a move for Etheridge makes more sense. The 29-year-old is in rich form right now and has displayed that he is able to match up to the best of the best in terms of raw ability. With a better backline to protect him, Etheridge could have perhaps, been able to showcase better numbers.
But, one would wonder why the 29-year-old would accept a move to play as a backup especially after having proven himself to be capable of being the first-choice in the Premier League. There is the obvious reason of being able to bag trophies and compete for top honours. But, Aston Villa seems like a more intriguing prospect.
The iconic club is set to return to the Premier League and could be the right club to offer Etheridge a chance to remain in the top-flight. Mark Bunn is set to leave the club on a free transfer and the rest of the options do not have any Premier League experience under their belt.
Etheridge not only has Premier League experience but has also proven to be a reliable stopper, something Villa could use to strengthen their chances of avoiding the drop in their first season back.
It still remains to be seen whether Aston Villa do return with an improved bid for the 29-year-old. If they do, Liverpool could have to look elsewhere to fill up their squad.
