In-form Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. is reportedly viewed by Liverpool as a possible long-term successor for Sadio Mane.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Vinicius Jr. is the subject of interest from Liverpool over a move in next summer’s transfer window. The Real Madrid forward is viewed as a possible long-term replacement for Sadio Mane, but the Spanish giants have no intention of selling the Brazilian.
Vinicius Jr. has gone from strength to strength since joining Real Madrid from Flamengo in July 2018. The Brazilian was heralded as a brilliant signing who could be a long-term solution in attack, but his end product often left a lot to be desired. That shortcoming has been addressed wonderfully this season.
This term, the 21-year-old has been a talismanic figure for Real Madrid, amassing 12 goals and nine assists in 23 appearances across all competitions. Vinicius’s exploits have not gone unnoticed, with several big-name clubs across Europe, including Liverpool, setting their sights on him.
The interest from Liverpool is understandable, considering they are in a precarious position over the long-term futures of Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah. While both the attacking stalwarts will be in their thirties by the time the 2022/23 season kicks off, they will also have entered the final years of their respective contracts with Liverpool.
Interestingly, both Salah and Mane have been linked with Real Madrid for years, and Los Blancos could launch the offensive for either of them next summer. With negotiations over their respective new deals being slow, Liverpool’s hand could be forced, which is why they have been heavily linked with several wide-attackers recently, including Real Madrid prodigy Rodrygo Goes.
Vinicius Jr. is also a viable target for Liverpool, with Jurgen Klopp eyeing the Brazilian forward as a replacement for Mane, in particular. However, the Reds are unlikely to secure the services of the 21-year-old, as Real Madrid will reject all offers for him.
The Merengues wish to see the prolific partnership of Karim Benzema and Vinicius continuing next season. So, despite reportedly being contacted by Paris Saint-Germain recently, it looks like Vinicius Jr. is set to stay put at Real Madrid, with Liverpool and other suitors being forced to set their sights elsewhere in search of an attacking reinforcement.
