Liverpool’s search for a new goalkeeper has seen them head to Italy, scouting Genoa’s Mattia Perin and Fiorentina’s Neto.
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The Reds have been linked with Fiorentina’s 25-year-old Brazilian Neto (full name Norberto Murara Neto) in recent months but are also keeping tabs on Genoa’s 22-year-old Perin (pictured above).
Perin recently made his debut for the Italian national team in the last international break, as a substitute against Albania. He has been – predictably – likened to compatriot Gianluigi Buffon.
Liverpool have scouted Perin on at least two occasions this season and would cost in the region of €12 – 15 million. He was previously linked with AC Milan before they signed Diego Lopez in the summer.
Perin has a spectacular style, with the cliched “cat-like reflexes”. He’s comfortable in possession, not his best strength but certainly not below the standard of a normal goalkeeper today.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have had talks with Neto’s agent. The Brazilian stopper’s contract at Fiorentina expires in 2015 and he is in talks to sign a new one, but Liverpool and Roma are both watching the situation.
Liverpool, having attempted to sign former Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes in recent months, are keen to sign a goalkeeper in January to at least add strength in depth in the position.
Current first choice Simon Mignolet‘s position continues to be in question due to recent form and high profile mistakes. The Belgian joined the club for £10 million from Sunderland in 2013.
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