I'd watched Alisson since 2012, but he had no EU passport. I did my own work and thought if we were to spend money, he was the only one to spend it on': Liverpool waited patiently for Brazilian goalkeeper before finally making 67m signing in 2018

Liverpool's successful pursuit of Alisson Becker exemplifies long-term scouting acumen. Goalkeeping coach John Achterberg monitored Alisson since 2012 when he played for Internacional. Originally hindered by visa issues, the Reds couldn't sign him until he moved to Roma, where he secured a European passport. After Loris Karius’s mistakes in the 2018 Champions League final, Liverpool seized the opportunity to sign Alisson for a record fee, recognizing his potential to elevate their performance. Now ranked no.1 by FourFourTwo, Alisson’s impact at Liverpool has been profound over his seven seasons at the club.

I’d been watching him since 2012. I spoke to his agent with the club before he went to Roma, but he had no EU passport so we couldn’t get him.

After Karius’ two blunders in the 2018 Champions League final against Real Madrid, the Reds needed a new goalkeeper, with Alisson fitting the bill perfectly.

Read at www.fourfourtwo.com