Liverpool have stepped up their efforts to sign Udinese midfielder Rodrigo de Paul, who is valued at around €35 million.
According to Tojofichajes, Liverpool have started initial discussions over the potential transfer of Rodrigo de Paul. They are ready to rival the likes of Inter Milan, Juventus and Leeds United in the pursuit of the Udinese midfielder, who is expected to leave the club in this ongoing January transfer window.
It is believed that Udinese have been feeling the brunt of the economic crisis in the footballing world caused by the Coronavirus pandemic. As a result, they are prepared to cash in on de Paul and have even dropped a €35 million price tag – a value that is unlikely to deter Liverpool, who have already opened talks over the move.
Anfield emerging as a potential destination for de Paul doesn’t bode well for other interested parties, however. Leeds United, in particular, were keen on securing his services in the summer but were unable to materialise a transfer. They ended up signing Rennes winger Raphinha for a fee of around €30 million.
60&100 – Soualiho #Meité is one of three players to have made 60+ interceptions and 100+ successful dribbles in Serie A in the last three seasons, along Ismael Bennacer and Rodrigo de Paul. Muscles. pic.twitter.com/tWOj1VHIlh
— OptaPaolo (@OptaPaolo) January 14, 2021
In this ongoing January transfer window, the Whites have a better chance of landing de Paul as they preparing for life without Pablo Hernandez. But with Liverpool also in the chase, Marcelo Bielsa’s side can safely be described as a mere outsider in the pursuit of the Udinese midfielder, who is thought to be a potential replacement for Georginio Wijnaldum.
The Dutchman has been linked with a move to FC Barcelona this January. And although de Paul’s style of play bears no resemblance to Wijnaldum, both the players are midfielders who like to move forward.
As far as de Paul is concerned, his ability to create chances in the final third coupled with his proficiency from set-pieces should combine better with the likes of Jordan Henderson and Thiago Alcantara. The Argentine is also known for his directness, thus giving an additional dimension to the Liverpool midfielder.
For a fee of just €35 million, de Paul can also be described as a fairly affordable target for the Reds. He should be an exciting addition to Jurgen Klopp’s midfield unit which has struggled with the injuries of Thiago and Naby Keita. So the Udinese star can not only provide tactical versatility to the side but also add competition for the likes of Curtis Jones, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Keita.
