Liverpool Eyeing £60m-Rated Midfielder

Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Porto midfielder Alan Varela as they prepare for the upcoming season under new head coach Arne Slot, who will officially take charge on June 1.

Despite revamping their midfield last summer by acquiring Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, Wataru Endo, and Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool are still in the market for a top defensive midfielder ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.

Liverpool Pursue Varela

According to Deportes 24, Liverpool are set to join the race for Porto’s Alan Varela. The Reds will face competition from Premier League champions Manchester City and German giants Bayern Munich, with all three clubs reportedly consulting Porto about a potential move for the 22-year-old midfielder.

Varela, who signed a five-year contract with Porto last summer after moving from Boca Juniors, is under contract until 2028. However, he has a €70m (£60m) release clause, making a transfer this summer a distinct possibility.

Varela’s Background

Varela emerged from the youth ranks at Boca Juniors, making 111 competitive appearances for their senior team. His impressive performances led to a move to Porto last summer for an initial fee of €8m (£6.8m). He quickly became a key player for Sergio Conceicao’s side, featuring in 44 matches in his debut season.

The Argentine midfielder has also made appearances for Argentina’s Under-23 side and is expected to represent his country at the Paris Olympics this summer.