Liverpool has emerged as a potential contender in the race to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti during the summer transfer window.
The Reds are actively seeking a new specialist No.6 to fill the void left by the departure of Fabinho. Consequently, various names have surfaced as potential targets for Liverpool.
According to L’Equipe, Liverpool is one of two English clubs reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing Verratti to the Premier League.
The Italian midfielder is going to be available for transfer this summer as PSG undergoes a change in direction. Verratti himself is open to the idea of a move and has attracted interest from several suitors.
Atletico Madrid is one of the primary contender, having already made contact with the 30-year-old and identified him as their top target. Additionally, there have been approaches from Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, which Verratti has reportedly turned down.
Lastly, two Premier League teams are monitoring the situation. While L’Equipe mentions Liverpool as one potential candidate, no concrete evidence supports this claim. However, it is definite that PSG would demand approximately £69 million for Verratti’s services, a substantial fee.
Liverpool Potential Interest in Verratti
While the addition of Verratti would undoubtedly bolster Liverpool’s midfield, it is highly unlikely that this transfer will materialize.
Although the Reds may opt for an experienced player to replace Fabinho, it is improbable that they would spend nearly £70 million on a player, especially one who will turn 31 in November.
Instead, Liverpool is more likely to pursue a player within the price range of £30-40 million. For instance, Leon Goretzka, will be a more feasible option for the Reds this transfer window.
Admittedly, Verratti’s quality might justify the higher price tag. The Italian international is arguably underrated. Having spent over a decade accumulating league titles in France. On his day, he is one of the finest holding midfielders globally, exhibiting tenacity and exceptional ball-playing skills. Neymar has even hailed him as ‘spectacular’ and a ‘genius’ during their time together at PSG.
However, Verratti’s recurring injury concerns pose a significant issue. If Liverpool were to make a substantial investment in a high-profile player. They would need to ensure that the player is durable enough to make regular appearances, akin to Fabinho’s reliability. Throughout his 11 seasons in Ligue 1, Verratti has surpassed 25 appearances in a season on only five occasions, with just one instance of reaching 30 appearances. This is a cause for concern.
Therefore, if there are indeed English clubs vying for Verratti’s signature, it would be surprising to learn that Liverpool is among them.
