FC Porto midfielder is making headlines with his performance. Bayern and Liverpool eye Varela after his impressive debut season at Estadio De Dragao, drawing comparisons to legend Javier Mascherano. Liverpool boasts a dynamic midfield, yet are keen on strengthening it. The 22-year old likened to former Liverpool maestro Mascherano is praised for his versatility and defensive shielding. He can also disrupt opposition defences with his visionary long balls and through passes along with relentless energy in game. Mascherano had the ability to play as an anchorman, showcasing defensive capabilities and made over 100 appearances for the Reds. He later proved instrumental to a dominant Barcelona side, spending 8 key years contributing to the Catalan giants’ success. The youngster’s playing style resembles “El Jefecito” (“the Little Chief”) hinting at his potential to excel in a similar role. The youngster’s exceptional performance against Arsenal in the Champions league highlights his ability to compete against England’s top sides.
Why does Liverpool need a “New Mascherano” in the form of Alan Varela?
In his final season at Liverpool, Klopp remarkably revamped the midfield, addressing a previous squad weakness effectively. During the summer window, the arrivals of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Wataru Endo replaced declining players like Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita, Fabinho, James Milner, and Alex Oxlade Chamberlain. However Endo was not the primary target last summer, as the club initially pursued Moises Caicedo before missing out.
The Japanese midfielder has impressed in his debut season at Anfield but he is already in his 30s. Liverpool’s Champions league return requires a smooth midfield transition, Varela’s adeptness in the anchorman role makes him a prime candidate. Varela’s versatility strengthens Liverpool’s squad depth, adept in midfield and centre-back roles, reducing pressure on key players. Bayern also interested in a deep lying midfielder since they failed to sign Joao Palhinha last summer.
Praise from Neves and International Interest
Porto, Benfica, and Sporting Lisbon consistently develop young talents, often selling them in the transfer market for profit. Premier league clubs consistently show interest in young stars from Liga Portugal. Varela has got interest from around the world and former Wolverhampton Wanderers captain Ruben Neves has heaped praises on the Argentine. Neves said,
“He is an excellent player. It was an excellent signing for Porto, perhaps the team’s most regular reinforcement in terms of time and quality of play….”
“Varela could be the final piece to the puzzle in the midfield for Liverpool. He offers depth and talent in the area and can also settle in England with Endõ also playing some minutes in the role.
Upon his arrival, Arne Slot could definitely use someone like Varela to get accustomed to a club of such stature. Both of them together can work wonders for the Merseyside.
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