Andoni Iraola Liverpool GFX
© IMAGO - Andoni Iraola Liverpool GFX
Anthony Gordon's move to Barcelona at the start of the 2026-27 summer transfer window shocked almost everyone in the footballing world.
Indeed, it was clear that the Englishman's time at St James' Park was going to come to an end this summer after Eddie Howe chose to leave him out of his squad for the final few Premier League games of the season.
However, the fact that Barcelona entered the race and signed him from under everyone else's noses was massively unexpected.
Liverpool have long been linked with a move for the Scouser. In fact, even when Gordon used to play for Everton, the attacker was high on their shortlist.
His versatility, coupled with his lightning quick speed and keen eye for goal are all things that Liverpool wanted from their attackers so, him being linked with them was unsurprising.
But, now that he's off the market, Richard Hughes has to turn his attention elsewhere with some fresh news emerging that could be exactly what the Reds needed to hear.
Andrea Schjelderup is one of the many wingers who outperformed their expectations at the 2026 World Cup.
The 22-year-old contributed to four goals during Norway's six World Cup games and was arguably their second-best player after Erling Haaland.
Much like most of the Reds' transfer targets, his natural position is on the left-wing but, there have been times when he's been used on the right in the past.
Before the World Cup, there wasn't that much focus on Schjelderup but, after his performances, Benfica's asking price started to get higher and higher until it reached the current point its at.
And, according to TEAMtalk, £68 million is now the minimum that the Liga Portugal side will accept for their attacker who they believe could become as good as Gordon in the future.
"Indeed, sources close to the Portuguese club have made it clear they do not feel under any pressure to sell for less than €80million (£68m / $91m) and will drive a hard bargain," they wrote.
"Benfica sources say they believe Schjelderup possesses the quality and potential to become every bit as effective as Anthony Gordon, who recently joined Barcelona for a comparable fee.
"They view the young attacker as a long-term asset capable of developing into one of Europe’s top talents, provided he is given the right environment to flourish. Therefore, they are putting a price on him that represents market value for a player of his age and quality.
"We can reveal that talks between Tottenham and Benfica remain at a very early stage, with no formal offer yet submitted – that’s despite the north London club still pursuing a £60m move for Manchester City star Savinho.
"Schjelderup himself is understood to be very open to a move to the Premier League after rejecting the chance to sign a new contract extension at the Estadio da Luz.
"His current deal runs until 2028, giving Benfica some room to negotiate, but they are in the peak time to sell him as he reaches the last 18 months of his deal.
"While Liverpool and Chelsea have also been linked with the player in recent days and do hold confirmed interest, Spurs’ proactive approach could give them an advantage if they move quickly.
"Benfica are prepared to cash in on their star man this summer but will only do so at a price that reflects his rising value and bright future in the game."
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When talk of Schjelderup first exiting Benfica emerged, the Liga Portugal club only wanted around €25 million to allow him to exit.
While the 21-year-old had a solid season under Jose Mourinho, Benfica clearly didn't think that he was one of the best attackers among their ranks otherwise they'd have been asking for a lot more money.
But, after his showing in the World Cup, it's clear that the attacker is an extremely talented player and is someone that could have a bright future ahead of him.
Since he's still so young, he could continue developing and become an even better player than he already is which is why the £68 million fee doesn't feel like it's that steep.
That is, especially when RB Leipzig and Paris Saint-Germain are demanding over £120 million for Yan Diomande and Bradley Barcola.
Of course, there's plenty of time until the window slams shut so other options could emerge for Liverpool but, of the ones they have available to them now, Schjelderup feels like the best option for them.