Liverpool might begin their transfer activities as potential targets exit international tournaments.
So far, the Reds have been notably inactive in the summer transfer window, largely due to Euro 2024 and the Copa America complicating negotiations.
Fortunately, both tournaments are now nearing their final stages, allowing many of Liverpool’s prospective targets to focus on transfer discussions.
One such target is Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori, who has been strongly linked with Liverpool and has impressed during the European Championship.
With Italy’s unexpected exit against Switzerland in the last-16, the 22-year-old may now become a more prominent name in transfer talks.
Bologna Director Hints at Riccardo Calafiori Possible Destination
Calafiori made a significant impact for Italy during the summer in Germany. Notably, he was absent for Bologna’s Monday defeat to Switzerland due to a suspension.
Without Calafiori’s composed and proactive defending, the Azzurri allowed two goals and were eliminated.
From Liverpool’s perspective, this could be beneficial. Reds sporting director Richard Hughes is reportedly interested in Calafiori, and Arne Slot could use a new centre-back.
However, Liverpool are not the only club interested in the former Roma player. Previously, Juventus appeared to be the frontrunners for Calafiori.
Despite this, Italian reports on Sunday suggested that Bologna would prefer Calafiori to move to the Premier League instead.
Now, this is supported by the club’s technical director, Giovanni Sartori. Speaking to journalist Fabrizio Romano on X, Sartori suggested that it’s ‘likely’ Calafiori will move abroad this summer if he departs Bologna.
“I think he will not end up joining Juventus,” says the director. “Probably he can go abroad, in case we decide to sell him.
“We’d like to keep Calafiori so let’s see what happens.”
Liverpool Given Riccardo Calafiori Advantage
Liverpool’s pursuit of Calafiori continues to receive encouraging updates, further bolstering their optimism. The presence of Hughes at Anfield could prove pivotal, given his strong ties to Italian football, potentially giving Liverpool a significant edge.
Bologna’s reported interest in Sepp van den Berg adds another layer to the situation. Following a standout season at Mainz, Van den Berg has expressed his desire to depart Liverpool. If Bologna’s interest in him is genuine, it could strengthen Liverpool’s position in negotiations for Calafiori.
Time is of the essence for Liverpool to make moves in the summer transfer window. All indications suggest that Calafiori is their primary target.
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