Galatasaray are reportedly preparing for a significant overhaul in their goalkeeping department, with Liverpool's Alisson Becker emerging as a key target. Mehmet Özcan of Sabah highlights the Turkish giants' interest, emphasising the influential role that legendary goalkeeper Claudio Taffarel could play in negotiations.
The 38-year-old Fernando Muslera, who has been a stalwart for Galatasaray, is set to depart at the end of the season as his contract expires. Having recently acquired Uruguay's S.Bella Italia club, Muslera is reportedly planning to return to his home country to be closer to his family. With this imminent departure, Galatasaray are actively scouting potential replacements.
Liverpool's plans for the upcoming season have placed Alisson's future at Anfield under scrutiny. Mehmet Özcan reveals that Liverpool have already secured the services of Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili for a reported fee of €30 million. The move has inevitably sparked speculation about Alisson's role in the squad, given that Mamardashvili's arrival appears to signal a succession plan.
Should Alisson decide to move on, Galatasaray are prepared to enter the fray. However, the Turkish club faces stiff competition from several European clubs, all of whom are likely to be drawn to the Brazilian's pedigree.
A significant factor working in Galatasaray's favour is the presence of Claudio Taffarel. Currently serving as a coach at Liverpool, Taffarel is also a revered figure at Galatasaray, where he enjoyed a successful playing career. Mehmet Özcan notes that Galatasaray are banking on this connection to persuade Alisson.
"Galatasaray management believe Taffarel's relationship with Alisson could be instrumental in attracting the Brazilian star to Istanbul," Özcan wrote in his report.
Despite the optimism, bringing Alisson to Galatasaray would be no small feat. The 32-year-old goalkeeper has been a pivotal figure for Liverpool since joining the club in 2018. With a Premier League title, a Champions League trophy, and numerous other accolades to his name, he remains one of Europe's most sought-after goalkeepers.
Furthermore, Alisson's current contract with Liverpool runs until 2027, which gives the Merseyside club significant leverage in any transfer negotiations. If Liverpool were to entertain offers, his transfer fee would likely be substantial, posing a financial hurdle for Galatasaray.
Another complication is the sheer number of clubs interested in Alisson. His experience and world-class performances make him an attractive option for elite teams across Europe. For Galatasaray, persuading Alisson to choose the Süper Lig over more competitive leagues may prove challenging, even with Taffarel's involvement.
Taffarel's influence cannot be underestimated. As a coach who has worked closely with Alisson, he has a unique understanding of the player's motivations and aspirations. Galatasaray's faith in Taffarel's ability to bridge the gap between Istanbul and Liverpool reflects the deep trust the club has in its former goalkeeper.
"Claudio Taffarel's legacy at Galatasaray and his close ties to Alisson give the Turkish club a chance, but it's far from a certainty," Özcan emphasised.
From a Liverpool perspective, the idea of parting ways with Alisson Becker seems almost unthinkable. Since his arrival, Alisson has been a transformative figure, not just for Liverpool's defence but for their entire style of play. His composure under pressure, world-class shot-stopping ability, and leadership qualities have made him a cornerstone of Liverpool's success.
However, with Giorgi Mamardashvili reportedly set to join, the possibility of Alisson departing cannot be entirely dismissed. While Mamardashvili is a talented goalkeeper, replacing someone of Alisson's calibre would represent a massive gamble. Liverpool fans will undoubtedly question whether the club should retain both keepers to ensure a seamless transition, rather than potentially weakening their squad by selling a player who remains at the peak of his powers.
For Galatasaray, the prospect of signing Alisson would be monumental. His arrival would elevate the Süper Lig's profile and solidify Galatasaray's ambitions on the European stage. Yet, questions remain about whether Alisson, still in the prime of his career, would consider leaving a top-tier club like Liverpool for a league that offers less competitive exposure.
Ultimately, while Taffarel's role provides a glimmer of hope for Galatasaray, convincing Alisson to leave Liverpool will require more than nostalgia. Unless Liverpool themselves push for his departure, it's hard to see the Brazilian swapping Anfield for Istanbul.