Shock new candidate emerges as Liverpool’s new No.1 goalkeeper

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp still wants a new first choice goalkeeper for next season but the solution may already be at the club, claims The Daily Mirror.

Loris Karius’ howler in Liverpool’s pre-season friendly against Tranmere has all but confirmed the Reds cannot start the season with the 25-year-old in goal.

The Merseyside outfit have been heavily linked with a move for Roma goalkeeper Alisson in the last 12 months but Klopp’s side have not made a bid, contrary to reports from Italy.

Klopp has struggled to pinpoint any goalkeepers that would represent a clear upgrade on Karius and Mignolet, but is now willing to give Danny Ward the chance to prove his credentials for next season.

Ward joined Liverpool in 2012 but has endured three loan spells away from the club since then, notably impressing with Aberdeen during the 2015/16 campaign and Huddersfield’s promotion-winning season in 2017.

The Wales international kept 11 clean sheets in 43 league games for Huddersfield in that campaign, but has only made three senior appearances for Liverpool in the past, last featuring in last season’s 2-0 defeat to Leicester in the EFL Cup.

The 25-year-old is highly regarded at the club and will now have Liverpool’s pre-season friendlies to prove his worth to club, in what would be a stunning turnaround for the goalkeeper.