Liverpool’s Goalkeeper Search Could Take Shape Ahead of Summer 2027
Liverpool may face a major decision between the posts in the summer of 2027, when long-serving goalkeeper Alisson Becker is expected to reach the end of his contract. If the Brazilian leaves Anfield as a free agent, the club will need to decide whether to promote from within, pursue a familiar former player or compete for one of Europe’s established goalkeepers.
Former Liverpool goalkeeper Brad Friedel has discussed the possible succession question with GOAL, offering a useful starting point for a conversation that is likely to grow as the transfer window approaches. Names linked with the broader debate include Caoimhín Kelleher, Spain international Unai Simón and Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma. At this stage, however, they are possibilities to consider rather than confirmed Liverpool targets.
Why Alisson’s Contract Situation Matters
Alisson has been a defining figure in Liverpool’s modern era. Since arriving from Roma in 2018, he has established himself as one of the club’s most dependable players, combining sharp reflexes with strong command of his penalty area and composure when building attacks from the back. His performances have helped Liverpool compete for major honours, making any eventual replacement a significant sporting and strategic decision.
Planning for a goalkeeper change well in advance would give Liverpool time to assess their options without being forced into a rushed purchase. The position demands more than shot-stopping: a new No. 1 must adapt to the team’s defensive structure, communicate effectively with centre-backs and cope with the pressure of playing in front of a demanding Anfield crowd. A transfer decision would also need to account for age, salary, availability and the goalkeeper’s willingness to accept the role.
Could Caoimhín Kelleher Return to the Picture?
Kelleher is an especially interesting name because he already understands Liverpool’s environment. The Republic of Ireland international spent years as Alisson’s understudy and earned opportunities in domestic and cup competitions, where he showed calmness, reliable handling and the confidence to play out from the back. That experience could make him a natural candidate if Liverpool were looking for a goalkeeper who needs less time to adjust to the club.
There is, however, an important complication: Kelleher’s career has already been shaped by the challenge of securing regular first-team football. A goalkeeper of his ability may prefer a clear No. 1 role rather than returning to a club where he previously spent much of his time behind Alisson. Liverpool would therefore need to consider not only whether Kelleher fits their needs, but whether a return would suit his ambitions and current circumstances.
For supporters, the appeal is easy to understand. A familiar player could offer continuity, while his knowledge of Liverpool’s training standards and tactical expectations might reduce the adjustment period. But any prediction about a reunion should remain cautious until there is concrete information about the club’s plans and the player’s situation.
Unai Simón: A Proven International Option
Unai Simón represents a different profile. The Spain goalkeeper has built a strong reputation through his performances for Athletic Club and the national team, where he has operated under intense scrutiny in high-stakes matches. His experience at international level and comfort with possession-based football could make him an appealing option for a side that expects its goalkeeper to contribute to the build-up.
Recruiting Simón would depend on several factors, including his contract position, Athletic Club’s willingness to negotiate and the financial terms involved. Liverpool would also need to judge how closely his strengths match the demands of their defensive system. A goalkeeper can be excellent in one tactical setting yet require time to adjust to another, particularly when asked to defend space behind a high line or distribute quickly under pressure.
Gianluigi Donnarumma Offers Experience and Star Power
Donnarumma would bring a substantial résumé to any transfer discussion. The Italian has played at the highest level for club and country and has accumulated experience in major competitions at a young age. His physical presence, reach and reputation could make him an eye-catching candidate if Liverpool decide they want an established international goalkeeper to take over from Alisson.
Yet reputation alone would not settle the question. Liverpool would have to weigh the cost of a deal, his wage demands and the practicalities of bringing in a player who may have several elite clubs interested. The club would also assess how his distribution and decision-making fit the way the team wants to defend and build possession. In a market where top goalkeepers can command significant fees, value and tactical compatibility would be just as important as name recognition.
Liverpool’s Recruitment Challenge Goes Beyond Finding a Shot-Stopper
The eventual choice will depend on the football Liverpool want to play when Alisson’s time at Anfield comes to an end. The ideal successor may need to be an active sweeper, a confident passer and a commanding presence at set pieces, as well as a goalkeeper capable of producing decisive saves. Recruitment staff will also have to consider the squad’s age profile and whether the club wants an immediate starter or a younger player who can develop into the role.
There may be other candidates who emerge before 2027. Transfer markets change quickly, and a goalkeeper who is not currently associated with Liverpool could become available through a contract dispute, a change of club strategy or an unexpected opportunity. That is why Friedel’s comments and the names currently being discussed are best viewed as early pointers, not a definitive shortlist.
Early Prediction: A Decision Still to Be Made
The most sensible prediction is that Liverpool will keep several pathways open. Kelleher could offer familiarity if circumstances make a return realistic, while Simón and Donnarumma represent established options with different strengths and potential costs. The club could also identify a less obvious candidate as its preferred choice once Alisson’s future becomes clearer.
For now, Alisson remains central to Liverpool’s plans, and there is no reason to treat a succession decision as settled. But the prospect of a summer 2027 departure gives the club a clear reason to prepare early. Liverpool’s next No. 1 will need to match the demands of elite football and the expectations attached to the shirt—a decision that could shape the team for years after Alisson’s Anfield chapter closes.
