Liverpool are in discussions with the agent of a world class superstar who has publicly stated his desire to put pen to paper with the Reds.

Liverpool have waved goodbye to their fair share of iconic players over the past two summers. Trent Alexander-Arnold defected to Real Madrid, while the decision was made to call time on the Anfield careers of Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah.

Of those that defined the Jurgen Klopp era, only Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk remain. The goalkeeper is 34, the centre-back 35, and both are out of contract at season’s end.

Reliable sources earlier this week, including Fabrizio Romano, heavily hinted Alisson won’t be offered a new deal.

The transfer guru insisted there are ‘serious’ chances for the Brazilian to depart when his current terms are up.

That would displease Reds boss, Andoni Iraola, who has made no secret of his desire to see Alisson stick around.

Iraola recently said: “I don’t know [if this will be Alisson’s last season], that is a question you have to ask him. I hope not, I hope he continues with us for more time.

“But, when you ask me about contracts and these situations, it is a matter for the players and the club.

“Yes we have continuous conversations with Julian [Ward] but I cannot tell you everything. We talk between us.”

And according to Alisson himself, Iraola may get his wish, with the legendary stopper publicly declaring his desire to remain in situ and sign a new contract.

Alisson wants new Liverpool contract as talks begin

As cited by the BBC, Alisson said: “Yes [I want to stay], in my mind. I’m focused on playing every game but in my mind I’m happy to stay.

“That depends on a lot of aspects and different situations. But my will is to stay – I’m happy here and my family is happy here.

“I’m still hungry for titles and to delivering good performances. I still want to play at the top level for as long as I can, so that’s my thinking.”

When asked if he’s personally spoken to the club about a new deal, he replied: “No, but my agent is talking with the club.”

Alisson’s distribution has drawn criticism over the past year or so, though he remains at the peak of his powers with regards to one-v-one situations and shot stopping.

Against Arsenal two weekends ago he produced a save of the season contender to deny Christos Tzolis. Against Crystal Palace last time out, he was arguably Liverpool’s best player and only denied a clean sheet by a dubious penalty call.

Alisson has been left out of Brazil’s squad for the current international break, though only because he has nothing left to prove.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti termed Alisson his “best goalkeeper” and the expectation is he’ll remain the undisputed No 1 for competitive matches and in the big tournaments.