Liverpool close in on Middlesbrough keeper Jones

12th Aug 2010 - Transfer Gossip  Liverpool Echo

Liverpool were today closing in on a deal to bring Middlesbrough keeper Brad Jones to Anfield.

Roy Hodgson has been eager to bring in experienced cover for undisputed number one Pepe Reina and the Liverpool boss has had Jones in mind for some time.

The Reds made an unsuccessful £2m bid for the Australian international last week but have subsequently returned with an improved offer.

It is understood Middlesbrough have now accepted that offer and Jones is set to begin the process of discussing personal terms.

Born in Western Australia, Jones signed professional forms with Middlesbrough in 1999 but was forced to play second fiddle to Mark Schwarzer for much of the time.

Jones did, though, become number one last year after Schwarzer, ironically, had signed for Hodgson at Fulham.

He has also been capped twice by his country and previously spent spells on loan at Rotherham United, Sheffield Wednesday (twice) Blackpool and Stockport County.

His imminent arrival places Diego Cavalieri's future in doubt and the Brazilian has been courted by, among others, Portuguese giants Benfica.

Cavalieri has started all Liverpool's games in pre-season but Reina - who missed Spain's trip to Mexico last night - is expected to take over against Arsenal.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.

Author: Liverpool Echo
Tagged: brad jones , jones