Premier League clubs are gearing up for a competitive pursuit of one of Europe’s hottest youngsters in the upcoming transfer window.
Liverpool’s potential interest in Real Madrid’s teenage talent, Paulo Lago, this summer is reportedly fueled by their connection with super-agent Jorge Mendes.
The Premier League club is said to be among those monitoring the 16-year-old, who is discontented with his limited playing time at Bernabeu, especially in comparison to his compatriot Lamine Yamal’s success at Barcelona.
Yamal and Iago are recognised as two of Spain’s most promising young players, having progressed together through the national youth ranks.
However, while Yamal received an early opportunity with Barcelona’s senior team, making his debut at just 15 years old, Iago has struggled to break into Real Madrid’s first team.
Yamal’s rapid ascent saw him become a regular fixture in Xavi’s squad, contributing seven goals in La Liga this season and earning a call-up to the Spanish national team.
In contrast, Iago has mainly featured for Real Madrid’s Under-19 team under the guidance of former Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa, without experiencing any senior action under Carlo Ancelotti.
Liverpool’s potential pursuit of Iago indicates their interest in securing young talent for the future, with Mendes’s influence potentially facilitating negotiations for the promising teenager.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the Reds could be looking to bolster their squad with promising prospects like Iago, who may benefit from increased playing opportunities at Anfield.
According to Sport, the central midfielder is considering a move elsewhere, prompting interest from clubs in the Premier League and Bundesliga who are monitoring the situation closely.
It is reported that these clubs are eyeing to trigger his £11million release clause during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Being represented by Jorge Mendes, teams associated with the Portuguese agent may have an edge in any potential transfer battle. Players like Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez, who are also managed by Mendes’ agency Gestifute, have already established connections with Liverpool.
While there’s no confirmation of Liverpool’s interest in Iago, it’s expected that top clubs across Europe will be briefed on the youngster’s situation if he decides to depart from Real Madrid at the end of the season. Manchester City’s relationship with Mendes could also position them as contenders for his signature.
Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva, Matheus Nunes, Ederson, and Joao Cancelo all have ties to Gestifute, implying that Manchester City could be well-positioned to pursue Iago if the necessary approvals are granted by club executives.
Wolves also boast a significant Portuguese presence, with several players represented by Mendes, although their ability to attract talent may not rival that of Manchester City.
Securing a talent as promising as Iago, who has the potential to emulate the success of Yamal, could provide the much-needed morale boost for Liverpool in the wake of Jurgen Klopp’s departure.
Liverpool must act swiftly if they wish to enter the fray for Iago, utilising their relationship with Mendes effectively and not delaying in doing so.
In other Liverpool news, Wayne Rooney Names the Liverpool Player Who Does Not “Get the Credit He Deserves” After His Display vs Man United