Opinion: Wonderkid will join Andoni Iraola’s squad

Liverpool's 18-year-old goalkeeper Lucca Brughmans is expected to join Andoni Iraola's first-team squad next season rather than going back out on loan. The Belgian wonderkid was signed from KRC Genk for £30 million during the summer and immediately loaned back to gain experience. Following strong performances, the Reds reportedly intend to integrate him directly into the senior setup as a backup option.

Meanwhile, Alisson Becker's agent Ze Maria confirmed that preliminary contract renewal talks are underway with Liverpool. The writer suggests Alisson's likely extension leaves Brughmans positioned as the club's number two goalkeeper, potentially paving the way for Giorgi Mamardashvili to be moved on after an underwhelming spell.