Liverpool are reportedly on high alert as Real Madrid are ready to put Brazilian superstar Vinicius Junior up for sale.
The Reds are searching for a replacement for Mohamed Salah following the Egyptian forward's exit. They initially placed Yan Diomande at the top of their wishlist, but the RB Leipzig winger has made a move to Paris Saint-Germain his priority.
Given the likelihood of Diomande arriving at the Parc des Princes, there was belief it could trigger a domino effect that would see Bradley Barcola head for the exit. But PSG reportedly intend to keep Barcola despite interest from Liverpool and Arsenal.
Liverpool Monitoring Vinicius Situation
Vinicius Jr
Liverpool's search for a Salah heir continues, and now they might have the opportunity to sign Vinicius. A report from TEAMtalk claims that Madrid have handed their Brazilian an ultimatum as he enters the final year of his contract.
Either Vinicius signs their proposed new deal, which includes improved wages of £400,000 per week, or they will listen to offers for him. The 25-year-old has lit up the Estadio Bernabeu since joining Los Blancos in 2018 but endured a troublesome past season both on and off the pitch.
While Vinicius is a left-winger by trade, he can play on the right, and his versatility could be of huge use to Andoni Iraola. Losing Salah will have a massive impact, not least because of his aura and world-class ability.
Liverpool will have to deal with other contenders in the race for the Selecao star if Madrid entertain offers. A move to the Saudi Pro League remains a possibility and he could double his wages by heading to the Middle East.
Bayern Munich are admirers and are monitoring the situation, while Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United are also keeping tabs. It will take a huge effort and a lot of money to secure his signature, with Carlo Ancelotti recently describing him as the 'best player in the world.'
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Phil Noble via Reuters
Phil Noble via Reuters
There aren't many more talented footballers in world football than Vinicius, who has wowed fans throughout his time at Madrid. He fared well at the World Cup despite Brazil's early exit, and he could thrive as the main man at Anfield.
Liverpool haven't been afraid to spend big in the past two transfer windows, breaking the British transfer record twice. Signing Vinicius will cost over £100m and the Reds are one of a few clubs in Europe who can probably afford a deal.
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With potential Salah replacements constantly being crossed off Iraola's wishlist, Vinicius' availability is worth keeping in mind. It does feel like the Brazilian will eventually put pen to paper on a new deal, but if he doesn't, he might view playing in front of the Kop as the ideal next challenge in his career.