Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius is finally set for a Bundesliga return as he signs for Union Berlin on a loan deal.
Loris Karius is set for yet another loan spell as the Liverpool goalkeeper joins Union Berlin. The German has signed a one-year loan deal with the Bundesliga outfit, having spent two seasons at Besiktas.
“I’m looking forward to my new opportunity in Berlin and I’m happy to be playing in the Bundesliga again. Union is a special club, one that has earned a great deal of respect, not just by promotion to the Bundesliga. I would like to play my part in this positive development and help to achieve the great goal of staying in the Bundesliga,” said Loris Karius after his signature, in an official statement.
The arrival of Karius serves as a breath of fresh air for Union Berlin coach Urs Fischer, who was lacking depth in the goalkeeping unit following the summer departures of last season’s number one, Rafal Gikiewicz while Leo Oppermann also joined the Hamburger SV reserves.
? @LorisKarius signs in Köpenick on loan from @LFC.#fcunion https://t.co/qTDd4LvXS1
— 1. FC Union Berlin (@fcunion_en) September 28, 2020
Union Berlin did bring in FC Augsburg ‘keeper Andreas Luthe earlier this summer. But, the 33-year-old always lacked the pedigree to become a regular Bundesliga ‘keeper and that is where Karius could in nicely.
The 27-year-old is quite an experienced goalkeeper, having made nearly 100 appearances in the Bundesliga for 1.FSV Mainz. He has also made almost 50 appearances for Liverpool in all competitions, notably playing in the 2017/18 UEFA Champions League final against Real Madrid. Such pedigree bodes well for an otherwise inexperienced Union setup.
For Liverpool, however, Karius’ departure makes complete sense as the Reds look to offload their fringe players. The German had no place in the current setup, given the decent job Adrian has done, as the second fiddle for Alisson. Aside from that, they also boast the services of the young Coaimhin Kelleher.
In fact, Liverpool fans would have preferred a permanent sale for Karius this summer, although sanctioning such a deal could have been difficult for a club like Union. But, it will be interesting to see how the goalkeeper performs upon his return to the Bundesliga this season.
