Liverpool Learn Price Tag for Brazil Star Previously Targeted by Michael Edwards
Real Madrid forward Rodrygo might depart the club this summer, and he is a player who has previously attracted Liverpool’s attention.
Despite their interest, Liverpool were unable to finalise a deal for him. However, the Reds could now have a chance to renew their pursuit.
Back in 2017, Liverpool showed strong interest in signing the promising young Brazilian. Sporting director Michael Edwards and the recruitment team had been monitoring Rodrygo following his impressive breakthrough at Santos.
Nonetheless, the transfer fell through as the 17-year-old was not ready to leave his boyhood club, causing the move to collapse.
“We didn’t close the deal because I didn’t want to,” the winger told the Guardian. “I wanted to stay at Santos even though the offer was very good. The pathway they promised me would also have been very good for my career. I was going to finish my studies in England to prepare for European football.
“It had always been my dream to play in Europe. Everything was very good, but my desire spoke louder. I wanted to stay at Santos and make a bit of history at the club. And that’s what happened: I was able to fulfil my dream of playing for Santos. But it’s true, I almost went to Liverpool.”
Two years later, Rodrygo made his move to Europe by joining Real Madrid. Since arriving at the Santiago Bernabeu, he has secured three La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies, including the 2022 victory against Liverpool in Paris.
Rodrygo Price Tag
It seems Rodrygo could be on the move again this summer. Reports indicate that the 24-year-old has grown frustrated at slipping down the pecking order, with Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, and Jude Bellingham favoured ahead of him. This season, Rodrygo has managed just 22 league starts and is open to seeking a new challenge.
According to Cadena SER, Real Madrid are willing to accept a fee in the region of £67 million for Rodrygo. Arsenal have also been linked with a potential move for the Brazilian international.
Would Liverpool Sign Rodrygo?
TBR Football reported in March that Liverpool have been in discussions with Rodrygo’s representatives.
Any potential deal involving the Reds could hinge on their efforts to secure Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz. Liverpool are in contention for the playmaker’s signature alongside Bayern Munich.
Wirtz, widely considered one of Europe’s most exciting young talents, is currently weighing up his future. For months, it appeared Wirtz was set to join German giants Bayern, but Liverpool’s interest has kept them firmly in the running.
The situation surrounding Luis Diaz could also influence Liverpool’s transfer strategy. Diaz is entering the final two years of his current contract at Anfield, with talks over a new deal expected to begin soon.
However, the Colombian’s father has previously revealed that it would be his son’s dream to play for Barcelona at some point in his career. Barcelona sporting director Deco has also admitted that the club admire Diaz.
When asked about the situation, Liverpool manager Arne Slot spoke ahead of Sunday’s game against Crystal Palace:
“Did he (Deco) say it in front of a microphone or is that from hearsay? Every club has its own way of doing things. You’re used to the fact I don’t talk about players from other clubs who we haven’t signed. I understand he is a big admirer of Lucho Diaz because I am a big admirer of him as well.
“If he just meant it that way, he’d have probably added to that that he’s an admirer of Mo Salah and Cody Gakpo as well. He admires a few players. I admire Lamine Yamal and Raphinha as well!”
In other news, Richard Hughes on F!re: Liverpool Now Confident of Securing “Superb” £120m Star Alongside Florian Wirtz
