Liverpool to open talks with Argentinian midfielder

The transfer window opens in less than a fortnight, with Premier League clubs set for a busy summer off the pitch. 

Clubs at both ends of the table are likely to be in the market for new signings, including Liverpool who are now under the stewardship of new manager Arne Slot.

The Dutchman took over at Anfield last month, following the departure of Jurgen Klopp after nine years on Merseyside.

One player that Liverpool are targeting ahead of the summer window is Porto’s Alan Varela, according to AS via 90min.

The report claims that Liverpool will soon open talks with a view to agreeing a move for the 22-year-old midfielder.

Varela, 22, has a £60 million release clause in his current contract with the Portuguese side and Liverpool are said to be interested in signing him.

It is also claimed that, while Liverpool will try to agree a lower price, Porto are set to stick to the £60 million release clause as Varela’s former side, Boca Juniors, are due a sell-on percentage for any sale.

Varela joined Porto last summer and made 44 appearances for the club during his first season in the Portuguese top flight.

Liverpool underwent a significant overhaul of their midfield last summer, with the likes of Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister replacing the outgoing Jordan Henderson and Fabinho among others.

Despite this, they are still in the market for another new midfielder and Varela has emerged as one of their leading targets.

It was announced last month that Spanish midfielder Thiago is leaving Anfield upon the expiry of his contract.

Varela is a defensive midfielder but is also capable of operating in a slightly more advanced central midfield role.