Liverpool have joined the race to sign in-demand Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha, who has caught the eye at the World Cup, according to Sky Sports Germany's Patrick Berger.
New manager Andoni Iraola is expected to be heavily backed in the transfer window this summer after replacing Arne Slot. The Spaniard will be keen on strengthening in midfield, given the issues that arose last season.
Uncertainty continues to grow over Alexis Mac Allister's future after an underwhelming campaign. The Merseysiders are reportedly prepared to sell the Argentine midfielder, and this could play a role in a potential pursuit of Nmecha.
The German has enjoyed a superb World Cup campaign thus far, playing in all three of his nation's group games. He has already registered one goal and two assists with the world watching.
Nmecha isn't the only midfielder who has been linked with Liverpool, as they are also eyeing Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton. The Reds spent around £449million last summer but still have money to spend ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Liverpool battle Manchester United for Nmecha signing
felix nmecha dortmund borussia
While Berger claims that Manchester United are "stepping up their pursuit" of Nmecha, he also names Liverpool as one of four clubs keeping tabs on him. Manchester City and Real Madrid are monitoring the 25-year-old's situation.
Nmecha is said to be "happy at Dortmund" and "fully focused on the World Cup", but a move to the Premier League is viewed as a "realistic option." He has previously played in England, starting his career at City before leaving for VfL Wolfsburg on a free back in July 2021.
A major stumbling block is Dortmund's valuation of the Germany international, as they reportedly set a £104m price tag, per BILD. That is a huge fee and one that would see him become the third most expensive player in Liverpool's history.
The Reds forked out £116m to sign Nmecha's German teammate Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen last summer. They followed that up with the British transfer record signing of Alexander Isak from Newcastle United for £125m.
Liverpool will have to pay a big price to sign Nmecha
nmecha dortmund
There's much to like about Nmecha, a mainstay in Dortmund's midfield last season. He boasts a versatile profile, able to operate as a central and defensive midfielder.
Rightfully dubbed "underrated", he is starting to earn recognition for his consistency in the Bundesliga and now on the biggest stage at the World Cup. He's already familiarised with English football, which could come in handy if Liverpool win the race for his signature.
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The main issue is the asking price, as spending over £100m will take a large chunk out of the Reds' summer transfer budget. There are other areas of Iraola's squad that need addressing, including out wide as they look to replace Mohamed Salah.
Yan Diomande is the top choice to replace Salah, and the club has already had an initial £86.2 million proposal rejected. They reportedly intend to return with a new offer of around £103.4m.
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