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Transfer news: Liverpool close to signing of Shay Given from Aston Villa

Irish goalkeeper has fallen out of favour at Villa Park

James Orr
Friday 30 August 2013 13:23 BST
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Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given is a target for Liverpool
Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given is a target for Liverpool

Liverpool are reportedly closing in on the transfer of veteran goalkeeper Shay Given from Aston Villa.

The Republic of Ireland international has fallen down the order at Villa behind Brad Guzan, and started only two Premier League matches for Paul Lambert’s side last season.

Given has been told he can leave Villa Park, and although he still has three years on his contract, would be available for a nominal fee.

The 37-year-old would serve as a back-up to £9m addition Simon Mignolet, after Pepe Reina joined Napoli on a season-long loan over the summer. Given brings a wealth of both Premier League and international experience, with 440 appearances in the division and 125 caps for his country.

Liverpool are also still interested in defenders Mamadou Sakho (from PSG) and Tiago Illori (from Sporting Lisbon) as Brendan Rodgers looks to solve the defensive injury crisis at the club, with Kolo Toure, Aly Cissokho and Sebastian Coates all sidelined.

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