Liverpool could be in the market for a talented midfielder from Portugal who could be one of the first ‘gets’ during the tenure of Arne Slot after Jurgen Klopp’s departure. Slot, the new gaffer of the Merseyside club, could be looking to bring in new players to revamp the squad, add more depth, and create a unique playing style that is relevant to his coaching tactics.
And he has his sights set on one particular player after he had an impressive season at FC Porto in the Portuguese top division.
Liverpool Could Sign Porto Midfielder
Liverpool have been looking at various players this summer from all over the world, especially focusing on the European leagues, like the Portuguese top league, Spanish La Liga, French Ligue 1, German Bundesliga, and Scottish Premier League.
One of the main standouts that is an interest of the new head coach, Arne Slot, is Alan Varela. Varela, at just 22 years old, would be a great choice for Liverpool to bring into their back line so they can help develop him as a player that would be a long-term investment. Instead of buying an older defender who won’t be around for much longer after Virgil Van Dijk retires, this young defender could be the future of Liverpool.
Varela is an Argentine footballer who can play as either a defender, defending midfielder/#6 position, or #8 midfielder. He began his youth career at Boca Juniors and then went on to play 78 games for Boca Juniors beginning in 2020. In 2023, he went to Porto where he has since made 18 appearances and scored two goals for his current club.
As a player for both Boca and Porto, he was well-known in the league for his ability to make tackles, play long through balls to his attackers, organize the defense, and remain calm under pressure. He is aggressive and intense, making challenges that others would shy away from. This increases his tenacious attitude and his proficiency at being either a center-back or holding midfielders against talented attackers.
Despite signing a five-year contract with Porto last year, there is room for him to be bought by another club or go on loan to another club to get more playing time and experience.
Liverpool Considering New Defender
But, just like with anything worth having, it comes with a price. Varela is thought to be around $70 million+, which could be too much for Liverpool to risk on a young player. However, Liverpool has noted his 44 appearances for Porto this past season and five goal contributions, which is exactly what they need as a deep-lying playmaker.
However, Liverpool might not be in the market for a young player with such a high price tag at the moment. The club currently has its crosshairs set on other options that might be more lucrative for the time being.
Last year, Liverpool brought in numerous new midfielders to try and bolster the squad, like Endo as the tough number 6, Ryan Gravenberch as an 8 box-to-box midfielder, and Szboboszlai, who can function as an attacking midfielder or a #8. Their versatility in the middle three positions, along with Mac Allister who came from Brighton, means the middle of the park is pretty much taken care of for this season.
Will Endo retire soon, since he is 31 years old, leaving space for Varela? Or, maybe Matip leaving could cause Arne Slot to want someone else as a backup in the middle? Only time will tell if Varela ends up at Anfield next year.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
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