Liverpool are one of a number of clubs closely monitoring the situation of Morocco midfielder Neil El Aynaoui, as Andoni Iraola looks to put his mark on the squad he has inherited, according to TEAMtalk.
El Aynaoui impressed for Roma in his 34 appearances last season, but interest in him has actually been fuelled by his recent performances in the World Cup. A standout performer for dark horses Morocco, the 25-year-old has run the show for the North African side in games against Brazil and the Netherlands.
Lille's Ayoubb Bouaddi was expected to be the breakout star for Mohamed Ouahbi's side at this tournament, with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City linked with the 18-year-old, but El Aynaoui has stolen the headlines.
TEAMtalk report that as many as eight Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, have expressed interest in Roma's prized possession.
Liverpool Eye Move for El Aynaoui
Andoni Iraola applauds Bournemouth supportersvia Reuters
Iraola has inherited a squad that arguably lacks an out-and-out defensive midfielder. Liverpool are subsequently looking to address this in the market, and have identified El Aynaoui as a possible candidate to fill this role at Anfield.
TEAMtalk suggest that the Reds, along with Manchester United, Chelsea, Aston Villa, Brighton, Bournemouth, Newcastle United and Sunderland have all held talks with intermediaries about the midfielder's availability.
Those close to the player believe there is a genuine chance for El Aynaoui to make the step up to the English top flight this summer, although a lucrative proposal will need to be offered to Roma to convince them to cash in.
While the Serie A giants view El Aynaoui as a key player, significant interest from the Premier League will test their resolve in the coming weeks, with offers expected to be tabled once Morocco's World Cup journey ends.
Liverpool could lose Curtis Jones this summer, while Alexis Mac Allister has also been loosely linked with a move away. If either one of these players ends up departing Merseyside, then El Aynaoui could become an essential signing for Iraola.
Liverpool Must Be Careful in El Aynaoui Pursuit
Andoni Iraola gives a thumbs-upREUTERS/Peter Powell
El Aynaoui has undoubtedly been excellent for Morocco so far in North America this summer. His ability to dictate the tempo of a match, as well as effectively shield the back four behind him, has been on show for all to see.
However, Liverpool should throw some caution to the wind on this front. El Aynaoui was largely a squad player for Roma last season, starting just eight Serie A games.
Coming into the tournament, there was little noise around the ex-Lens star. This combination of factors seemingly suggests that perhaps El Aynaoui is simply enjoying an excellent tournament, but isn't able to replicate this level for his club on a consistent basis.
If the price rises too high, then Liverpool should look at alternatives. Bouaddi is one of the hottest prospects on the market, and would no doubt be attracted to a move to Anfield.
The Reds need to be cautious about not being overly swept up on World Cup fever.