Liverpool have concrete interest in signing Porto midfielder Alan Varela during the summer transfer window, according to Foot Mercato.
The Merseyside giants reinforced their midfield department last summer with the signings of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szobozslai, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch.
Despite this, they are fancied to invest on another midfielder and Foot Mercato claim that they are moving concretely with an approach for Porto sensation Varela.
The 22-year-old, dubbed as the ‘new Javier Mascherano‘, has been fantastic from the number six role for the Primeira Liga outfit, delivering several stand-out displays.
Porto are quite clear that they won’t sell the Argentine for less than his €70 million release clause this summer.
Varela would be an ideal defensive midfielder for Liverpool
The Reds have had a brilliant Premier League campaign thus far, but there have been several games this season where they have come from behind to secure late victories.
Endo and Mac Allister have shared the defensive midfield duties, but there is room for an upgrade in the department. Mac Allister is much better as an advanced number eight.
Endo has fared better than initially expected, but the Japan international is almost past his prime. He is a solid number six, but is not known for his strong ball-playing abilities.
Varela would be a fine acquisition for the Reds this summer. The 22-year-old averages around 47 passes per game in the Primeira Liga with a pass accuracy of 89 per cent.
He has caught the eye with his brilliant positioning in the centre of the park and has also impressed with his long balls. He averages 3.7 long passes per outing – an accuracy of 71 per cent.
Liverpool have already done business with Porto with the signing of Luis Diaz two years ago. The Reds could capitalise on their good working relationship to lower the fee for Varela.
Ultimately, the final decision could be made based on the next manager at the helm.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
