Liverpool have rejected an offer from Portuguese side Vitoria SC for their young goalkeeper, Fabian Mrozek. The 20-year-old spent the entire 2023/24 season training with Jurgen Klopp’s first team, learning from the likes of Alisson and Caoimhin Kelleher. However, it seems that this summer could bring a change for Mrozek, as Liverpool consider his future.
According to Polish outlet Meczyki, Liverpool turned down Vitoria SC’s loan bid for Mrozek, which included an option to buy. This suggests that Liverpool may have other plans for the young goalkeeper. Other clubs are also interested in signing Mrozek on loan, with two clubs in his native Poland, FKS Stal Mielec and MKS Cracovia, seeking an agreement with Liverpool.
Stal Mielec, who finished 11th in the Ekstraklasa last season, is said to be “closer” to signing Mrozek. They already have Mateusz Kochalski, the Ekstraklasa’s Goalkeeper of the Year, as their first-choice goalkeeper. On the other hand, Cracovia, who finished 13th, has Sebastian Madejski as their number one and Kamil Glik as their notable player.
Liverpool may be hesitant to loan Mrozek to either club due to the struggles of another goalkeeper, Jakub Ojrzynski. Ojrzynski, who is also from Poland, had a difficult loan spell at Radomiak Radom and Den Bosch in the Netherlands. His lack of appearances led to his loan being terminated early. With doubts surrounding Ojrzynski’s future, Liverpool may be cautious about sending Mrozek to a similar situation.
Mrozek is highly regarded by the staff at Liverpool, but his next move comes at a time of change in the goalkeeping department. The head of goalkeeping, John Achterberg, has left to join Al-Ettifaq after spending 15 years with the Reds. Achterberg had extensive knowledge of the goalkeepers at Liverpool, as well as the best talents worldwide. Assistant Jack Robinson has also departed, with Fabian Otte taking over as the new head of first-team goalkeeper coaching. Claudio Taffarel, a Brazil legend, will remain on the staff.
With uncertainty surrounding the goalkeeping department at Liverpool, Mrozek’s decision about his future becomes even more significant. Liverpool’s rejection of Vitoria SC’s offer suggests that they have plans for the young goalkeeper, whether it be a loan to another club or a different role within the squad. As Mrozek turns 21 in September, this summer could be a crucial time for his development and career progression.