Liverpool are among the clubs showing strong interest in acquiring Italy international Riccardo Calafiori this summer.
With Joel Matip’s departure, the Reds might be in the market for a new centre-back.
Despite already having four centre-backs, Liverpool are focusing on young talents who can benefit the club in the long term.
Calafiori made a significant impact for Bologna last season and has been a standout player for Italy in the Euro 2024 Championships.
Juventus, a Serie A giant, is also attempting to sign the 22-year-old defender, but Bologna prefer selling him to Premier League clubs over a direct rival.
As reported by the Sunday Mirror (30 June, page 72), Bologna are open to bids from Liverpool and other Premier League teams for Calafiori.
The Reds would need to pay a substantial fee, likely over £40 million, since FC Basel are entitled to 40 percent of any sale exceeding £5 million.
The Reds are expected to face competition from Arsenal and Chelsea in their pursuit of the defender. Arsenal have already made an enquiry, but any potential deal hinges on whether they can offload Jakub Kiwior, who is attracting interest from several Italian clubs.
Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, has been monitoring the defender for an extended period, dating back to his tenure at Bournemouth. Hughes could play a crucial role in securing the talented centre-back for Anfield this summer.
Additionally, Liverpool have shown interest in Lille’s highly-regarded young defender, Leny Yoro. They are prepared to pursue his signing if his potential move to Real Madrid falls through.
Should Liverpool miss out on Yoro, they need to focus on signing the Italian defender, who has the potential to develop into a top-tier centre-back in the future.
In other Liverpool news, Liverpool May Finalize Their First Summer Signing Today as Approach is Not Ruled Out