The reality of the Alan Varela transfer surfaces as Liverpool is rumored to start $75 million negotiations with Porto.
Liverpool is reportedly considering a move for Porto’s holding midfielder Alan Varela, who has been likened to former Anfield ace Javier Mascherano.
Liverpool is said to be reigniting its interest in Porto midfielder Alan Varela during the summer transfer window. The 22-year-old, who only joined Porto a year ago from Boca Juniors, has enjoyed a fine first campaign in Europe.
He starred against Arsenal in the Champions League and has already drawn comparisons to fellow Argentine and ex-Liverpool favorite Javier Mascherano. Varela’s performances have attracted interest from numerous clubs, including Bayern Munich, but Liverpool is reported to be in the mix.
Argentine publication TN Todo Noticias reports that Liverpool has contacted Porto regarding a potential deal for Varela, who has a release clause worth $75m (£60m/€70m), in an attempt to pull ahead in the race.
Yet, as things stand, a move for Varela seems unlikely. Liverpool overhauled its midfield a year ago with signings such as Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Wataru Endo, all of whom made positive impacts in their first seasons.
Currently, the Liverpool ECHO claims that figures at Anfield have downplayed ‘genuine interest’ in Varela. It is suggested that the player’s agent may be driving the transfer speculation.
New boss Arne Slot is expected to prioritize strengthening other positions after officially starting work as Jurgen Klopp’s replacement on Saturday. A central defender is likely to be targeted after Joel Matip was allowed to leave following the expiration of his contract.
According to The Athletic, Slot and new sporting director Richard Hughes will also look to add another wide attacker to the ranks ahead of next season’s return to the Champions League.
Liverpool.com says Varela has already shown his talent at Porto, but it appears he will not be on Liverpool’s radar this summer. The transfer window brings plenty of rumors and speculation, and this one will be no different. There will be targets for Slot and the Reds’ hierarchy, but this one should be taken with a pinch of salt.