Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool’s coaching staff have been so impressed with Simon Mignolet’s professionalism as our backup goalkeeper that he wants to keep the Belgian on the books next season as Alisson’s continued no.2.
It was expected that the 31-year-old would depart for the first-team football he’s worthy of, having not been a Liverpool regular for 18 months now.
But Paul Joyce has reported in the Times that Liverpool now ‘expect’ to keep Mignolet, unless a serious permanent offer arrives that both player and club like.
Mignolet’s contract doesn’t run out until 2021, and while he’s paid well – it would be almost impossible to secure a backup goalkeeper of his level – so we can understand Liverpool’s stance.
We’re surprised the keeper himself hasn’t demanded an exit; but if he’s happy with his current role – then great.
Mignolet is a decent stopper and a top professional and we’d be delighted with his continued presence behind our world-class Brazilian.
This means that a new left-back may well be the only purchase made before the new season begins.