Adrian will remain a member of the Liverpool squad for at least one more season, according to the goalkeeper, who revealed he is “really close” to agreeing to a new deal.
Adrian’s name was unexpectedly left out of Liverpool’s announcement that Roberto Firmino, James Milner, Naby Keita, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain would be departing this summer.
The Spanish player’s contract is set to expire on the same day as his departing teammates, but there has been no announcement regarding his departure.
Rather, discussions about an extension are still going on, and last month Jurgen Klopp told reporters he had a “rather good feeling” that something would be worked out.
That sentiment was echoed by Adrian, who said that negotiations for a new contract were “really close” to being concluded in an interview with James Pearce of The Athletic.
“I get along well with both the manager and the team. We have been speaking, and we are very close,” he said.
“I am aware of the circumstances and of my place in the squad.
“Everyone wants to play and get playing time, but you also need a big squad of good players who will give it their all every day in practice.”
His commitment comes as Caoimhin Kelleher’s future is being discussed, despite Klopp insisting his No.2 The Irishman is anticipated to push for a transfer, would stay unless an “extraordinary offer” came in.
Adrian, 36, is unlikely to move up the goalkeeping hierarchy again as a result; he is more likely to remain the third choice.
A third-choice goalkeeper hardly ever even makes the bench on game days, making it a challenging position to understand from the outside.
Adrian went on to elaborate on the mindset needed for the job as he assisted in pushing people like Alisson and Kelleher.
“You must have the belief that you will be the best. You have to have the mindset that you can be the best,” he said.
“To be honest, if you feel like the second or third person, you are screwed.
“With the knowledge that players have various roles, the highest level of motivation and commitment is required.
“It’s like being single and then getting married and having to adjust.”
Adrian is not likely to be the only Liverpool player to sign a new contract this summer as decisions need to be made regarding the futures of Joel Matip and Thiago, whose contracts are entering their final year.
There will likely be discussions with the right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold whose terms expire in 2025.
