Liverpool are in the hunt for Cagliari star Nicolo Barella and are ready to table a bid for the highly-rated 21-year-old, according to La Nuova Sardegna.
The Italian regional newspaper report that Barella is on the radar of several big clubs this summer, with Chelsea and Roma also eyeing up the young central midfielder.
La Nuova Sardegna claim that Cagliari will only accept a bid of £35million for their prize asset, who scored six goals in 35 appearances in all competitions in 2017/18.
Good move for Liverpool?
There is no doubt that Barella is one of Italy’s rising stars, with the 21-year-old playing a massive part in helping Cagliari stave off relegation in 2017/18.
The young midfielder is a brilliant all-round midfielder, with the Italy Under-21 international possessing a good passing range while being strong in the tackle.
While his natural instincts are geared towards attack, Barella did a stellar job for Cagliari in a more central and defensive midfield role in the past season.
A move for the young star therefore does make sense for Liverpool in footballing terms, but £35million may be slightly steep considering how unproven he is over a long period of time.
Live 4 Liverpool rating: 7.5/10
Likely to happen?
It looks like there are several top clubs in the hunt for the 21-year-old this summer, including Premier League rivals Chelsea.
However, Liverpool should hold the advantage over the Blues considering their precarious managerial situation.
You would think the most likely outcome here is a move to a bigger Italian side, with Roma looking the likeliest to make a bid.
Live 4 Liverpool rating: 2/10
