Liverpool transfers: Reds' riches could help seal deal for 'immense' England international

Liverpool's wealth could help them secure the signing of Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy on a free transfer this summer after he won promotion back to the Premier League on Sunday. 

The Reds have been linked with a move for the 34-year-old in recent weeks as they look for depth in between the sticks, with Adrian expected to leave the club when his contract expires in a month.

Backup stopper Caoimhin Kelleher has also been touted with an Anfield in exit in search of more regular first-team football, with Celtic among the interested parties.

Liverpool will have to add at least one goalkeeper to their squad and it could well be McCarthy, who has enjoyed a strong final month of the season with Southampton having previously been second choice - helping them earn promotion in the Championship play-off final at the weekend.

While not a particularly exciting signing, McCarthy would provide experience and support in the goalkeeping department, while also classing as a homegrown player for squad registration.

ALEX MCCARTHY'S UNCERTAIN SOUTHAMPTON FUTURE

McCarthy, who has earned one cap for the England national team, is set to become a free agent this summer having not signed a fresh deal with the Saints.

However, according to Southampton boss Russell Martin, the south coast side are eager to keep the 'immense' McCarthy around in the top flight next season, but know they face competition from richer clubs.

Speaking after the play-off final in which McCarthy starred with some strong saves, Martin told the Southern Daily Echo: "I know that there will be offers for all of them and probably offers that will pay them more than we can.

"Hopefully the feeling they have and all that stuff will outweigh financial gain but maybe there'll be other things about it too.

"Big Al, I guess I'm a bit of an idiot for not playing a bit sooner but I think we have such a brilliant goalkeeping department here with Gavin [Bazunu] and Joe [Lumley] as well. I'm so pleased for Al that it finished in this way. As I said, maybe it was meant to happen that he came into the team at some point

"He's been immense since he came in so we'll try and keep Al as well and we'll keep our fingers crossed. It's my job now to try and squeeze more money out of Phil [Parsons, CEO] and the board and everyone and see where it takes us."

If Liverpool are keen on adding McCarthy to their ranks, they may have to act quickly after his side's return to the Premier League.