Alex McCarthy was the ‘front-runner’, according to The Liverpool Echo, in Jurgen Klopp’s pursuit of a new goalkeeper, but the Reds have instead opted to sign Adrian.
The experienced Spaniard joined Liverpool on a free transfer following his release from West Ham United and will take the place of Simon Mignolet as Alisson’s backup.
Twitter: Welcome to the Reds, Adrian!
#LFC https://t.co/bAc2UNtTKI (@LFC)
Liverpool had been expected to swoop for McCarthy, who was left out of Southampton’s squad against FC Koln on Saturday, but it seems their apparent interest in the goalkeeper is over.
Read Southampton’s verdict
Angus Gunn is clearly Ralph Hasenhuttl’s first-choice in this position, but McCarthy is certainly good enough to act as a deputy. In fact, despite his shortcomings in the first half of last season, he is a more than capable Premier League goalkeeper.
It is understandable that the club are open to offloading him this summer as they look to raise funds for the possible signing of a new central defender, but should he remain at St Mary’s Stadium, it will by no means be a bad thing.
While McCarthy is unlikely to usurp Gunn from in between the sticks, with the England Under-21 international boasting plenty of potential, he is a reliable backup option.
Many appear to forget his efforts towards the end of the 2017/18 season, as he made a collection of outstanding saves to help Southampton to safety, consequentially seeing him rewarded with a new four-year deal. However, his mistakes last term have effectively, it would seem, sealed his fate.
Saints may yet receive another offer for McCarthy in the closing stages of the transfer window. But if he does not secure a move away from the club, his stay would hardly be unwelcome.
