8 months ago
133 Liverpool have reportedly set their sights on a midfielder likened to Javier Mascherano and backed for a huge future in the game.
The Reds are one of several elite European clubs looking at Porto midfielder Alan Varela, according to Footmercato.
Although Liverpool brought in a host of new midfielders last summer, there’s certainly scope to bring in another No. 6.
Back in November, Jamie Carragher suggested on Sky Sports that the Reds could do with bringing in a “top holding midfielder” in 2024.
Varela certainly fits the bill. At just 22 years of age, he has already made a significant impact at Porto since his move last summer.
According to Footmercato, the Argentine powerhouse’s efforts have made him ‘one of the revelations of the season in Europe’ and led to clubs like Liverpool circling.
Porto are apparently rubbing their hands in anticipation of a potential huge profit for Varela, who cost them only £9.4million from Boca Juniors.
The report claims the likes of Liverpool could expect to pay €70million (£60million) for the former Argentina Under-20s ace.
As well as the Reds, the likes of Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund are apparently in pursuit of Varela.
Liverpool target Alan Varela is an ‘excellent player’
Admittedly, £60million is a princely sum, but Liverpool would be getting themselves one of Europe’s most exciting young midfielders in Varela.
Back in December 2022, Spanish outlet Sport wrote a feature article about Varela, likening him to Sergio Busquets.
Meanwhile, Footmercato suggested he could be the next Javier Mascherano, who played for Liverpool between 2007 and 2010.
Former Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves has also sung Varela’s praises.
“He is an excellent player,” Neves told O Jogo via The Mirror. “It was an excellent signing for Porto, perhaps the team’s most regular reinforcement in terms of time and quality of play.
“He is extremely aggressive, is always very well positioned in defensive balances and, lately, he has been getting a little further forward, making his passing and finishing ability count.
“He’s already scored two goals. He is very complete and has been one of the most important elements of the team.”
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