Alisson reveals desire to stay at Liverpool as new contract talks begin
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineLiverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has expressed his desire to sign a new contract with the Premier League club, insisting that he and his family are happy at Anfield.
The Brazilian international, whose current deal is approaching its conclusion, said he remained focused on his performances while his agent held discussions with the club over a possible extension.
Speaking about his future, Alisson told BBC Sport: “Yes [I want to stay], in my mind. I’m focused on playing every game but in my mind I’m happy to stay.”
The 34-year-old, who joined Liverpool from Roma in 2018 for £66.8m, has made 347 appearances for the club and remains an important figure in the team.
He admitted that several factors would influence the final decision but maintained that remaining at Anfield was his preferred option.
“That depends on a lot of aspects and different situations. But my will is to stay – I’m happy here and my family is happy here.
“I’m still hungry for titles and delivering good performances. I still want to play at the top level for as long as I can, so that’s my thinking,” he added.
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Alisson also confirmed that formal negotiations had yet to take place between himself and Liverpool, although his representative was already in contact with the club.
“No, but my agent is talking with the club,” he revealed.
The goalkeeper has enjoyed considerable success since arriving on Merseyside, winning two Premier League titles, two League Cups, the FA Cup, the Champions League and the Club World Cup.
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has also expressed his desire to keep the Brazilian at the club, admitting that he hopes the experienced goalkeeper will “continue for more time”.
Iraola acknowledged Alisson’s importance to the team, both for his performances on the pitch and his leadership within the dressing room.
Meanwhile, Alisson has called for greater consistency from Liverpool as they attempt to improve their performances following recent setbacks against Arsenal and Fenerbahce.
The Brazilian produced several important saves in Sunday’s victory over Crystal Palace, but insisted that the team must improve collectively to compete for major honours.
“Our reality is that we’re not doing as well as we can. It doesn’t mean that we are not doing well – we are doing well in so many games – but the consistency is not there yet,” he said.
Despite acknowledging the team’s shortcomings, Alisson expressed confidence in the quality of the squad and its ability to achieve success under Iraola.
“We have a top manager, top players. We are capable of great things but as a team we need to get to a point where we feel: ‘We are OK now. We have the confidence. We have everything that’s needed to win.’
“We are building that. I hope we get there really quick but it takes time. We have to be patient but as players, in our mind, we don’t have time to waste,” he concluded.
Alisson has made 14 appearances across all competitions this season, conceding 20 goals and keeping four clean sheets.
Liverpool currently occupy fourth position in the Premier League table with 18 points, nine behind leaders Arsenal.
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