Last summer, with Arne Slot as manager, Liverpool came close to acquiring Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi as a key reinforcement. Although the clubs agreed on a fee, the transfer eventually fell through when the player decided to stay in Spain.
While interest in the player has been discussed since then, a surprise reinforcement target has emerged. According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are interested in 27-year-old Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong. However, they also reportedly have to lower their salary demands.
The Dutch midfielder has been linked with a move to Manchester United in the past, but has remained loyal to Barcelona and has been adamant about a move. However, the club’s financial difficulties have continued and they have had trouble registering new players such as Dani Olmo this season.
The 27-year-old defensive midfielder’s position has changed since Hansi Flick took over as manager, with 21-year-old Spanish midfielder Marc Casadó playing well and an ankle injury delaying his arrival, which has prevented him from securing a place in the first team.
In 13 appearances, he has started only once each in the domestic league and the Champions League. The rest of his appearances have come from the middle of the park and he has not shown enough to earn his club’s top salary.
The Spanish clubs would really like to release him to earn a transfer fee and free up salary space. On the other hand, it is unlikely that Liverpool will set their sights on a player who looks expensive both in terms of transfer fee and salary, and it is likely to end up being just a rumour.
Also, his age – he will turn 28 in May this year – means that a future on Merseyside should not come…