Transfer Centre

Liverpool transfer blow confirmed as Reds miss out on £15.2m deal

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter
Published: 06 July 2024 12:35 PM

Slot snubbed: Liverpool beaten to £15.2m signing despite 'pleasing' talks

Juventus confirm the signing of Italian goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio from Monza, despite the 26-year-old's agent holding talks with Liverpool.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has been dealt yet another early transfer blow at Anfield, as the Reds have missed out on a deal for one of their reported goalkeeping targets.

While there is surely no danger of Alisson Becker leaving this summer, despite reports of interest from Saudi Arabia, he could start the 2024-25 season without both of his former deputies.

Erstwhile third choice Adrian was offered a new contract, but talks with the Spanish veteran failed to yield a positive solution, and he ultimately left as a free agent at the end of his deal.

Caoimhin Kelleher remains on the books on Merseyside, but the Republic of Ireland international is now itching for regular first-team football after a few years as Alisson's backup.

Kelleher shone during Alisson's injury absences in the 2023-24 season, but his hopes of earning a summer move elsewhere have taken a hit after Liverpool lost out to Juventus in the race for Michele Di Gregorio.

Monza's Michele Di Gregorio pictured in May 2024 © Reuters

Di Gregorio agent confirms Liverpool talks after Juventus move

The 26-year-old was announced as a Bianconeri player on Friday, after Juventus came to an agreement with Monza over a loan deal, which will turn into an obligation to buy if certain objectives are met.

Juventus have paid an initial €4.5m (£3.8m) to sign Di Gregorio on loan, and the €13.5m (£11.4m) permanent clause means that the Old Lady will fork out at least €18m (£15.2m) for his long-term services.

Di Gregorio arrives at Juventus after keeping 53 clean sheets in 144 matches for Monza, including 14 from 33 in the 2023-24 Serie A season, where he made more saves than any other goalkeeper.

Following confirmation of his Turin transfer - which could rise to a total of €20.8m (£17.6m) through bonuses and additional payments - Di Gregorio's representative Carlo Belloni confirmed to TV Play that discussions had been held with Liverpool.

While the ex-Inter Milan goalkeeper was "pleased" to have been contacted by a club of the Reds' calibre, he had already given his word to Juventus and new manager Thiago Motta.

Bologna coach Thiago Motta reacts on April 13, 2024 © Reuters

"Yes, there was a chat with Liverpool and obviously we were very pleased. However, we had given our word and had clear ideas after Monza. However, we had no doubts about the choice after speaking with [Cristiano] Giuntoli," Belloni said.

"We remained faithful to Juve because it was what he wanted, what Juve wanted and Thiago Motta is a name that immediately came up with Di Gregorio. It is right that it went this way. They also awarded him as MVP at the Juventus Stadium and it was a dream combination."

Slot to target former goalkeeper as Di Gregorio alternative?

With a move for Di Gregorio now dead in the water, Liverpool could very well turn to one of Slot's former goalkeepers, as their talks with the Italian's agent suggests that they are expecting to lose Kelleher in the coming weeks.

Feyenoord's Justin Bijlow - Slot's number one in Rotterdam - has been linked with a move to both Arsenal and Liverpool in the current window, and it is believed that he could be available for just £10m this summer.

Athletico Paranaense's Bento and Sunderland's Anthony Patterson have also been mentioned as possible alternatives for Liverpool, who face Real Betis in their first pre-season friendly on July 27.