Liverpool identify former Premier League flop as Wijnaldum replacement

Portugal were one of four teams to secure progression to the round of 16 on the last group stage match day of Euro 2020 on Wednesday. 

The reigning champions joined France, Germany and Spain in securing progression on the final day, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema scoring twice each in a thrilling 2-2 draw, while Germany left it late to peg back Hungary in a game that also finished 2-2 and saw the Hungarians depart.

Portugal’s star-studded squad navigated the ‘group of death’ well, beating Hungry and picking up the point against France.

One player who has impressed when called upon is Lille’s Renato Sanches, and the former Bayern Munich star is now being linked with a move to the Premier League.

According to Italian outlet Calciomercato, Liverpool are keen admirers of the player and could make an approach for him after his impressive performances while on international duty.

Sanches, who won the Young Player of the Tournament award during Portugal’s 2016 triumph, spent an unsuccessful loan spell at Swansea City during the 2017-18 season.

Sanches started Portugal’s 2-2 draw with France on Wednesday.

The midfielder has since got his career back on track, however, playing a key role in Lille’s Ligue 1 triumph.

Former Liverpool man Jose Enrique took to social media this week to endorse a Liverpool move for the player, saying that Jurgen Klopp ‘could make him world class’.

“He always has been a great player,” Enquire wrote on Instagram.

“Who else has been amazed by Renato Sanches tonight,” he added.

Sanches could be seen as the perfect replacement for Gini Wijnaldum, who departed the club for Paris Saint-Germain after the expiry of his Liverpool contract.

The Netherlands midfielder had been widely expected to join Barcelona, but instead headed to the French capital on a free transfer.

Sanches made 23 appearances for Lille last season as they won the French title for the first time in a decade.