Liverpool are reportedly on the verge of pulling off a surprise signing that few saw coming—snatching up a goalkeeper who was also on Manchester United’s radar.

The Reds have already made headlines this summer with big-money moves for Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, and Milos Kerkez. Transfer links continue to swirl around other potential targets like Marc Guehi, Viktor Gyokeres, Alexander Isak, and Hugo Ekitike.

But in a fresh twist, The Times’ Paul Joyce has revealed that Liverpool are nearing an agreement to bring in Freddie Woodman from Preston North End on a free transfer.

Woodman is expected to add depth to the goalkeeping unit, offering reliable backup behind Alisson Becker and recent recruit Giorgi Mamardashvili. With both Caoimhin Kelleher and Vitezslav Jaros set for loan moves, this addition helps maintain balance in the squad.

Another key advantage? Woodman qualifies as a homegrown player, meaning he won’t take up one of the limited non-homegrown spots on Liverpool’s UEFA squad list.

Interestingly, Manchester United were previously linked with the 28-year-old shot-stopper, reportedly viewing him as a possible third-choice option. However, they ultimately opted to renew Tom Heaton’s contract, leaving the door open for Liverpool to swoop in.

Woodman, who impressed in the Championship with 13 clean sheets last season, is now set for a Premier League return—this time in a red shirt at Anfield.