Premier League heavyweights Liverpool are reportedly in talks to sign FC Porto midfielder Alan Varela, who has drawn comparisons to Javier Mascherano.
According to a report by Football Insider, Alan Varela is the subject of interest from Liverpool. The Reds are keen on signing a midfielder in the summer transfer window and have initiated discussions to sign the Argentine prospect. Meanwhile, the FC Porto midfielder will cost around £60 million in the summer transfer window.
The rise of Alan Varela
Alan Varela has established himself as one of the best young midfielders in the world in the last couple of years. The 22-year-old rose in prominence during his spell with Boca Juniors, having graduated from the fabled Argentine club’s youth division. Meanwhile, his exploits have helped him earn comparisons to Javier Mascherano due to his style of play.
The youngster joined FC Porto last summer and has taken no time to become a mainstay in the middle of the park for the Portuguese giants. The Argentine midfielder amassed nearly 3,500 minutes of game time across 44 appearances in all competitions, chipping in with two goals and three assists.
Meanwhile, Varela’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe. A move to the Premier League might be on the cards, with many English bigwigs setting their sights on him. Liverpool will be one of his prospective suitors.
Premier League move on the horizon?
Recent reports have painted a contradictory picture of Liverpool’s interest in Alan Varela. Some have claimed that the Reds will intensify their efforts to sign the 22-year-old. Others have suggested that they are not vying for his signature. However, the latest update has revealed that talks to sign the youngster are underway.
However, the Argentine midfielder will not come cheap, as his contract with FC Porto has a release clause worth £60 million. The 22-year-old might not be worth the outlay right now but has the potential to justify an investment of £60 million.
Coughing up £60 million to secure Alan Varela’s services is a matter for the future. It will be interesting to see how talks between Liverpool and FC Porto for the young midfielder progress heading into the summer transfer window.
