Ex-Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina closes in on Villarreal transfer return aged 39 after ripping up Lazio contract

PEPE REINA is reportedly set to make a sensational return to Villarreal, 17 years after leaving the club to join Liverpool.

The 39-year-old joined Lazio on a free transfer from AC Milan in 2020 and quickly established himself as the club's first choice goalkeeper.

However, because he was limited to 17 appearances last season he has now decided to move on.

Lazio have agreed to terminate Reina's contract, meaning he is now available on a free transfer.

And according to Spanish outlet AS, Villarreal will offer the Spaniard a new deal.

Unai Emery believes he will be able to challenge first choice keeper Geronimo Rulli for a regular spot in the squad.

Reina made 147 appearances during his first three-year stint with the Yellows.

He joined the club from Barcelona in 2002 before making the decisive move to Liverpool three years later.

Rafa Benitez – who was Liverpool manager at the time – regarded him as the best keeper in Spain when he arrived at Anfield.

And Reina lived up to those claims when he won the Premier League's golden glove award at the end of his first season in England.

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The goalkeeper has also represented Bayern Munich and Napoli.