Liverpool is working on a significant summer signing, with reports that they are preparing a €40 million bid for Barcelona’s influential captain.
Following their Premier League title victory, new manager Arne Slot sees the midfielder as the perfect player to strengthen the core of the team.
The 27-year-old is a master of controlling the tempo and progressing the ball with his dribbling, so Slot is keen to add him to the squad, even if Liverpool have a packed midfield already, as reported by Fichajes.
Barcelona is in a tricky situation. The player is important to their tactical game – he has started in all 40 matches this season, and is a key cog in their machine.
However, they have significant financial issues, which may force them to sell the player even if they do not want to.
Their need to balance the books may take priority over sporting needs as financial constraints are on the mind of any club, and with other elite clubs also looking on, a big enough offer may be tempting, despite silly money not being the plan for their squad.
The leadership of the player remains unquestionable; likewise with the quality in his arsenal. However, it may simply be too good an offer to refuse if they receive a sizeable bid.
The person in this tug-of-war is Frenkie de Jong, whose contract expires in 2026. His goal contributions have been unimpressive, but he offers more than just stats.
Liverpool’s interest is based on his knowledge of Slot’s system and proven quality in important matches.
Will they sell their captain, or try to keep a player that represents their identity? In the coming weeks, this could set the tone for several clubs and how they approach the transfer window.
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