Liverpool`s acquisition of goalkeeper Freddie Woodman has reportedly been a target for the club for a decade. The Reds have now officially confirmed the signing of the shot-stopper on a free transfer, following his departure from Preston North End.
The 28-year-old Woodman will join Arne Slot`s goalkeeping unit, providing depth after Caoimhín Kelleher`s transfer to Brentford. At Anfield, he will compete for playing time alongside first-choice Alisson Becker and recent arrival Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Despite spending much of his career in the English Football League (EFL), Liverpool`s interest in Woodman`s abilities is well-established. He developed in the youth ranks at Newcastle United and had loan spells at clubs like Swansea City and Kilmarnock before moving to Preston`s Deepdale.
Reports indicate that Liverpool were linked with Woodman even before he made his senior debut for Newcastle. At that time, Crystal Palace and Southampton were also said to be pursuing his signature.
Crystal Palace held a particular advantage as they had appointed Woodman`s father, Andy Woodman, as a coach. Freddie himself spent over ten years in the youth setup at the South London club before moving north in 2013.
Andy Woodman, now manager of Bromley, is a close friend of Sir Gareth Southgate and served as his best man.
Freddie Woodman has also accumulated significant international experience, having represented England at every youth level from U16 to U21.
He remained at St James` Park until his permanent transfer to Preston in 2022. During his three seasons as Preston`s primary goalkeeper, he was named the club`s Player of the Year in his first season.
Former Preston manager Ryan Lowe once valued the goalkeeper at £20 MILLION amidst interest from Rangers.
This summer, Liverpool wasn`t the only club reportedly interested in Woodman. Manchester United were also linked, but ultimately decided to offer veteran Tom Heaton a contract extension.
While Woodman may initially be considered the third-choice goalkeeper at Anfield, his signing holds strategic importance. As an Englishman, he qualifies as a homegrown player, which is crucial for UEFA squad registration rules for competitions like the Champions League.
UEFA limits the number of non-homegrown players to 17, and Arne Slot`s squad is reportedly close to this limit following the recent summer arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong.
Last season at Deepdale, Woodman performed well, playing a vital role in Preston`s successful fight for Championship survival. He recorded 12 clean sheets in 37 appearances as the team finished just one point clear of the relegation zone.
