Fabrizio Romano confirms a secret Liverpool approach for an £85m Premier League anchor, but rival interest from Man Utd could completely ruin the deal.
Liverpool have officially stepped up their hunt for a new midfielder, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirming the Reds have made contact over one of the Premier League’s most in-demand talents.
It is no secret that Anfield is in the market for midfield reinforcements this summer potentially even more than one, depending on outgoings. With rumors swirling around Curtis Jones’ future and shock links suggesting Alexis Mac Allister could move away, Liverpool find themselves needing depth.
But even if both stay, a defense-first midfield anchor remains an absolute necessity. Currently, Wataru End? is the only specialist No. 6 in the squad, and his long-term future remains up in the air.
Liverpool’s recruitment team clearly agree. Following reports earlier this month that the Reds had inquired about West Ham United’s Matheus Fernandes, Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed on his YouTube channel that Liverpool did indeed touch base at the end of May.
Speaking to Born ‘N Red, Romano dropped the inside track:
“I will tell you something that was not so public in the recent days and weeks. Liverpool made a call two weeks ago to understand the situation of Fernandes at West Ham, to understand the price and conditions, but they didn’t return with any bid or any official conversation.
“But they made a call two weeks ago, I can guarantee that. Tottenham and Man United are busy with a deal, so there are so many clubs involved. The player is going to be expensive, more than £85m. It means Liverpool are working on midfielders.”
While Fernandes is a fantastic defensive midfielder, the financial realities of the deal look set to scupper a move to Anfield.
Driven up by intense interest from Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham’s asking price has skyrocketed toward an eye-watering £85m.
For a player who has now suffered back-to-back Premier League relegations, that is far more than the Liverpool hierarchy are willing to commit. What was initially viewed as a potential value-for-money signing has quickly turned into an incredibly expensive transfer.
The Reds’ hesitation also comes down to tactical and financial priorities. As things stand, Liverpool’s immediate focus remains on securing a new winger, with Yan Diomande still high on the club’s wishlist. Until that primary target is sorted, it is hard to imagine FSG sanctioning a massive layout on a midfielder.
With Fernandes likely heading elsewhere as the multi-club race heats up, Liverpool fans will be holding out hope that the recruitment team can unearth a more cost-effective alternative. One thing is certain: Romano’s update proves the Reds are actively working behind the scenes to find that crucial midfield shield.