Liverpool are poised to intensify their pursuit of Alan Varela from Porto, with the midfielder’s release clause set at €70 million.
According to Eduardo Burgos, Liverpool is gearing up to negotiate with Porto for Varela, whose contract includes a €70 million release clause. Former club Boca Juniors also holds a percentage of any future sale.
Liverpool’s Interest in Alan Varela
Last summer, Liverpool was keen on securing a holding midfielder to strengthen their midfield. They were linked with Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo, but both players ended up joining Chelsea, leaving Liverpool with Wataru Endo from Stuttgart as a temporary solution.
Throughout the season, Alexis Mac Allister has often been deployed as the holding midfielder, with Endo also playing regularly. However, there is a growing call for Liverpool to sign a specialized defensive midfielder in the upcoming transfer window. So far, few names have been linked to this role.
Alan Varela from Porto has caught Liverpool’s eye. The Argentine midfielder has impressed during his stint with the Portuguese club. A major move could be in the works for the €70 million-rated player, who has a release clause set at that price.
Liverpool is now expected to prioritize the acquisition of Varela this summer. It remains uncertain whether they will need to pay the full €70 million clause, but Liverpool and Porto have maintained good relations over the years, with previous transfers such as Luis Diaz’s.
Will Varela Improve Liverpool?
Liverpool cannot rely on Endo as their primary defensive midfielder for the new season. Following the departures of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson last summer, the team has lacked a strong presence in the center. Therefore, it is crucial for Liverpool to secure a player who can dominate that area, and Varela has proven to be capable.
Varela was instrumental in Porto’s matches against Arsenal in the Champions League, causing significant trouble for the North London side. His league performances have been exceptional, suggesting that Liverpool could greatly benefit from his arrival.
However, there is a slight complication: Eduardo Burgos reports that Varela, valued at €70 million, will be representing Argentina at the Olympics, which could impact his availability.
Conclusion
As Liverpool prepares for the summer transfer window, securing Alan Varela from Porto appears to be a top priority. Whether they will need to pay the full €70 million release clause is still in question, but Varela’s potential to bolster Liverpool’s midfield is clear. With good relations between Liverpool and Porto, a deal could be on the horizon that addresses Liverpool’s need for a strong defensive midfielder.