Done Deal: Liverpool Set To Sign Star, Player Set For Medical

Liverpool are close to completing a deal for former Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes as the Spaniard is close to full fitness. Valdes will have to pass a medical before signing for the club for a free transfer.

Valdes suffered from a Cruciate Ligament Rupture in March which ruled him out for the remainder of the season. He had already revealed that he wanted a new challenge, so a transfer was imminent, however, the injury prevented anyone from signing him. Liverpool seem to have the upper hand in signing the 32-year old as their first choice keeper Simon Mignolet has struggled to put in good performances. The Belgian had a good 1st season but has failed to follow it up this season.

Mignolet’s distribution and decision making in set-pieces have been a big problem for Liverpool and the addition of a top quality goalkeeper will definitely make him more focussed. Mignolet spoke regarding the speculation of Valdes joining the club, “If I have to look into all the people and players who are linked with Liverpool, then there will be another team on the pitch. Every week there would be a different 11 playing.

“So it is just the fact that you play for a big club and you have to accept that is the way it is but I don’t read anything into that.”

Valdes is 32, so there is still some football left in him as goalkeepers tend to get better with age. Liverpool’s style will suit Valdes as he is used to a style where the ball is played from the defence. His style is similar to former Liverpool shot-stopper Pepe Reina who was brilliant in distributing the ball. Valdes’ concentration level in games is another unique trait. Barcelona’s style meant that Valdes had to be on his toes all the time as his side used to dominate the possession. His save percentage was brilliant in the season when they won 7 trophies under then manager pep Guardiola.

Another advantage of signing Valdes is the experience that he possesses. Valdes is from Barca’s famous youth academy and is definitely one of the best keepers in the club’s history. He won 21 trophies with the Blaugrana and is a five-time winner of the Zamora trophy which is an honour given to the League’s best keeper.