Liverpool are closing in on the signing of 17-year-old goalkeeper Marcelo Pitaluga. James Pearce of the Athletic reports that the initial fee is around the £700,000 region. However, the deal could rise to £1.8 million with performance-related add-ons taken into consideration.
The young Brazilian goalkeeper said his goodbyes at Fluminense yesterday; he is expected to have a medical in the coming days. This will be only Liverpool’s second signing of this transfer window, following Olympiakos left-back Kostas Tsimikas joining the Reds in early August.
Liverpool on the Verge of Securing Deal With 17-Year-Old Fluminese Goalkeeper Marcelo Pitaluga
Liverpool Have Been Watching Over Marcelo Pitaluga for a While
The Reds have been tracking Pitaluga since Brazil won the Under-17 World Cup in November 2019. The move was accelerated by Liverpool’s goalkeeping coach John Achterberg, who scouted the Brazilian extensively.
Liverpool’s current number one Alisson was also asked to help scout the 17-year-old. Fortunately, enough, Alisson only had to look as far as his brother for feedback, as his brother Muriel plays for Fluminense.
The Brazilian club are facing severe financial troubles at present, which has seemingly quickened the process. Pitaluga also holds a German passport, which avoids any problems around obtaining a work permit.
Where Will Pitaluga Fit in at Liverpool?
The acquisition of the young Brazilian is clearly a signing for the future. In the short term, Pitaluga will be involved in the Under 23 set-up. However, his time will be divided between Melwood and the Kirkby academy, as Liverpool intend to further his development by sometimes training with Alisson and the first-team.
Pitaluga would become one of five keepers at Anfield. This is something that Liverpool will need to address before the transfer window closes. Loris Karius is one that they will be hoping to sell and are hoping to bank around £6 million for him. Kamil Grabara, who spent last season out on loan at Huddersfield Town, is expected to be loaned out once again.
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