Liverpool back in for Copa America ace as transfer asking price proves too much for rivals

Liverpool are reportedly frontrunners for the signature of goalkeeper Bento after Inter Milan pulled out of the race to sign the Brazilian international.

With Caoimhin Kelleher, who has served as Alisson’s deputy for the last few seasons, wanting to become a No.1, and Spaniard Adrian said to be keen on a return to La Liga to join Real Betis, Liverpool needs a new back-up shot-stopper.

And if reports in Brazil are to be believed, the Reds are edging closer to landing Athletico Paranaense goalkeeper Bento as Alisson’s new backup. Globo claims Inter Milan have opted to pull out of the race to land Bento, who made his international debut for Brazil earlier this year at Wembley against England.

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The Serie A champions have reportedly instead turned their attention to Genoa goalkeeper Josep Martinez, handing Liverpool a transfer boost.

Bento, who was named in Brazil's Copa America squad, is said to be available for a reported $16m (£12m/ €15m), and is also of interest to both Sporting Lisbon and Benfica.

And with Alisson having missed 18 games due to injury last season, it also makes sense for Liverpool to look to land a high-end backup to the former. But the prospective signing of Bento could also hint at a potential move away from Anfield for Alisson too.

The 31-year-old is of interest to the Saudi Pro League, who look set to embark upon another monstrous spending spree this summer. However, should he remain with the Reds, Alisson is more than ready for the prospective challenge of Bento, or any other goalkeeper Liverpool bring in this summer.

Speaking earlier this month, the Reds goalkeeper said: “I am still one of the younger ones! I am at my peak. Brazil has many strong goalkeepers, both locally and internationally. It keeps us sharp and prevents complacency.”

While he endured injuries last season, there can be no doubt that Alisson remains arguably the best goalkeeper in the world. Despite his age compared to other positions, 31 is still relatively young for a goalkeeper.

A bumper offer from Saudi Arabia could test Liverpool’s resolve, but the more likely outcome this summer is for Alisson to remain at Anfield. Should Bento join his compatriot on Merseyside, he will be watching him from the same position he does for Brazil; on the bench.