Liverpool are reportedly among several European clubs monitoring Athletico Paranaense and Brazil goalkeeper Bento ahead of the summer transfer window.
Following Jurgen Klopp's departure and now under the leadership of Arne Slot, Liverpool are expected to evaluate their squad requirements for next season in the coming weeks.
Current first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker has been linked with a potential high-value transfer to Saudi Arabia, while backup shot-stopper Caoimhin Kelleher has been rumoured to be considering a move away from Anfield in search of more playing time.
In a recent interview with The Athletic, Kelleher admitted: "It would be great if that happened at Liverpool, but I'm not silly. I know that Ali has been the best goalkeeper in the world for years. I've had such an amazing time at Liverpool. It's been a crazy journey for me and one that I've absolutely loved.
"I love the club, I love the fans and I have a great relationship with the players and the staff. Whether it's here at Liverpool or somewhere else, I do feel the next step for me is to be a No 1."
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Liverpool to rival European giants for Bento signature
Should the Irishman depart Merseyside this summer, Liverpool will almost certainly have to find a suitable replacement, and a report from Sports Zone suggests that Bento has emerged as their leading candidate.
However, the report adds that the Reds are likely to face stiff competition to secure the Brazil international's signature, with AC Milan, Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan all showing interest in the 24-year-old goalkeeper.
It is understood that Athletico Paranaense are asking for a fee in the region of £17m to part ways with their highly-rated shot-stopper.
Inter Milan are believed to be the frontrunners in securing the Brazilian's signature, having made an attempt to sign him ahead of the 2023-24 season.
The Nerazzurri have targeted Bento to replace Emil Audero as the backup keeper to Yann Sommer initially while challenging the 35-year-old Swiss international for the number one jersey as the season progresses.
Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, view the Brazilian as potential competition for Jan Oblak, while AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan has been linked with a move away from Serie A this summer.
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Bento gains admirers after impressive season
Bento enjoyed an excellent 2023 season with Furacao, making 26 appearances across all competitions, keeping an impressive 13 clean sheets, and only conceding 16 goals.
Over the past year, his consistent performances have earned him a call-up to the Brazilian national team alongside Alisson.
Bento made his senior debut for the Selecao in a friendly against England in March and is expected to be included in the Brazil squad for the upcoming Copa America.
Devesh Jaganath
