Liverpool are on a mission to find their next Mohamed Salah this summer, but haven’t been able to make too much progress so far.
The Reds return for pre-season training next week as Andoni Iraola officially takes charge of his first training session with the squad, and there will be plenty of curiosity surrounding the preparations for the new season.
After a disappointing and frustrating season under Arne Slot, supporters will be eager to see improvements both on and off the pitch, with recruitment an important factor in whether Liverpool can be competitive across all competitions.
With RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande and Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola dominating the headlines, fresh reports are now suggesting Liverpool have their eye on a more established superstar in La Liga.
What’s the latest Liverpool transfer news?
According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are one of five clubs keeping an eye on Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior’s contract situation.
The publication claims that sources have indicated intermediary talks with several Premier League clubs have taken place after making it clear that the forward would be open to a move to England.
Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool are all staying informed on the developing situation and have indicated they would all make a serious approach if given the green light.
Real Madrid are determined to retain their player and will continue negotiations over a new contract when he returns from the World Cup. However, with the winger’s representatives seeking a pay rise from £350k-per-week to £500k-per-week, the two parties are currently at an impasse.
Should Liverpool sign Vinicius Junior?
Liverpool are losing more than Salah’s goal contributions; they’re losing star quality and one of the most influential winning mentalities in their dressing room since Steven Gerrard.
While the Reds have been focusing on signing up-and-coming talent that can develop into superstars, the opportunity to secure a deal for one of the most talented players in the world would be extremely tempting.
Vinicius Junior, once hailed as the “protagonist” for Brazil by legend Romario, has been a consistent and reliable attacking threat for Real Madrid over the last few years, amassing 128 goals and 100 assists in 375 appearances.
Indeed, the financial investment required to secure a deal for the 26-year-old Brazilian would be substantial, and while Liverpool are renowned for their strict transfer policies, last summer’s recruitment drive suggested they are willing to take the leap for the right player.
Competing with several Premier League clubs for his signature, alongside Real Madrid’s determination to extend his contract, means getting a deal done would be far from straightforward.
Any move would likely depend on contract negotiations breaking down and would represent an opportunistic approach from Liverpool.
Replacing Salah was never going to be about finding another player capable of matching his numbers overnight, but Liverpool must also ensure they don’t lose the star power that has defined their attacking threat for almost a decade.
If Vinicius Junior were to become genuinely available, it would represent the type of rare market opportunity that even Liverpool’s cautious recruitment model would struggle to pass up.