Liverpool have taken the first step towards signing Porto midfielder Alan Varela by asking about his availability.
With Arne Slot joining Liverpool this summer, new signings are on the horizon as the Dutch manager looks to build a team in his image, with Porto’s Alan Varela potentially being the first recruit.
This marks the start of a new chapter at Liverpool, following the end of Jurgen Klopp’s nine-year tenure last week. Slot arrives with fresh ideas and transfer targets, aiming to revitalise a squad that narrowly missed out on the Premier League title in the 2023/24 season.
According to Argentine journalist Leo Pardizo, Liverpool have expressed interest in Porto midfielder Alan Varela and have inquired about a possible move.
However, they will face tough competition from several European clubs, including Bayern Munich and Manchester City, who are also pursuing the Argentine.
Liverpool Have Enquired About Varela
He could become the Reds’ first signing of the summer.
Given Liverpool’s midfield vulnerability last season, prioritizing an upgrade in that area would be logical for Slot. While Mac Allister and Endo performed decently, a more proficient defensive midfielder seems necessary.
Hence, reports of Varela’s move to Liverpool align well. The 22-year-old’s standout performances in Liga Portugal, showcasing ball retention and defensive prowess, make him an attractive prospect.
Having joined Porto from Boca Juniors last summer, Varela’s €11 million deal has yielded 26 appearances, with Porto securing a third-place finish in the league and advancing to the Champions League’s last 16.
Reports suggest Liverpool, along with Manchester City and Bayern Munich, have initiated discussions regarding Varela’s transfer. With a £60.4 million release clause, Varela could be a feasible target for all interested clubs.
Manchester City’s stability could give them an advantage over transitioning teams like Liverpool and Bayern Munich in attracting the player. However, Slot has the potential to offer the sought-after player more regular playing time than the other clubs.
With Endo being the only true defensive midfielder on Liverpool’s roster, Varela would face less competition in that position compared to other teams.
Varela Can Start New Liverpool Era
Slot may look to build his midfield around the talented Argentine.
If Liverpool manage to secure the talents of Varela, praised as a “Rolls-Royce” by Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig, he would mark the first player acquisition at Anfield not orchestrated by Klopp since 2015.
Varela would kickstart Slot’s rebuilding process, becoming the initial piece in his team-building puzzle.
Bringing in Varela would bolster a position that has lacked his particular profile, complementing the current core of Mac Allister, Endo, Dominik Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliott, and Ryan Gravenberch.
Once midfield reinforcement is secured, Slot may shift focus to strengthening full-back and centre-back positions, possibly targeting an additional high-quality forward.
The Carabao Cup champions have been linked with talents such as Archie Gray and Crysencio Summerville, as Slot endeavors to leave his mark on the squad.
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