Liverpool are keen on making a move for Porto midfielder Alan Varela during the January transfer window, according to a fresh update regarding the Reds’ summer transfer business.
Jurgen Klopp’s decision to leave Anfield at the end of the season has come as a shock, but Liverpool can’t afford to let it affect them too much.
Instead, the Reds need to secure the services of the best possible replacement for the German, with Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso looking like the standout choice currently.
Whoever comes in will be wanting to sign a number of players who are right for their system, not to mention bringing a freshness to Liverpool’s squad, ensuring they continue to kick on after an excellent 2023/24 season.
While the Merseysiders made significant changes to their midfield during last summer’s transfer window, bringing in Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch, it looks as though they are eyeing another player in that area.
According to a new update from Foot Mercato [via Sport Witness], Liverpool are interested in signing Varela this summer, with scouts watching him in action for Porto last weekend.
Manchester City are also mentioned as potential suitors, however, so there could be some strong competition for his signature once the current campaign comes to an end.
Our thoughts on Varela joining Liverpool this summer…
While some may feel that Liverpool already have enough midfield depth ahead of next season, especially with Stefan Bajcetic hopefully featuring more prominently after injury, Varela could still be a brilliant addition.
The Argentine is only 22 years of age, so would be considered a long-term purchase, and with Thiago likely to be the one midfielder who does move on when his contract expires, a space in the squad could open up.
This season, Varela has made 20 appearances in the Primeira Liga, starting 19 of those matches, and he has enjoyed an 89% pass completion rate, as well as completing 89.8% of his passes across seven Champions League outings.
The Porto man can thrive as a defensive midfielder, meaning he could rival Endo in the deep-lying role for Liverpool, further allowing Mac Allister to shine in his preferred No.8 role, rather than be used more defensively.
