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Liverpool transfer news: Most likely ins and outs ranked and rated – Pepe, De Ligt, Origi
LIVERPOOL are not expected to make too many big moves in the transfer market this summer, but that hasn’t stopped rumours of new arrivals at Anfield circulating.
Liverpool: Expert reveals how club could get Matthijs de Ligt
The Liverpool squad is in a healthy position after a brilliant 2018/19 campaign that saw them secure the Champions League and come within a point of the Premier League title.
Jurgen Klopp has previously suggested that there would not be a wave of new signings after such a successful season, although the Reds manager will still be keen to bolster his team in certain areas.
Liverpool have already been linked with a couple of high-profile wingers while they have also reportedly joined the race for Dutch wonderkid Matthijs de Ligt in an attempt to improve an already formidable defence.
Another striker is required in order to provide back-up for Roberto Firmino while cover for Andrew Robertson at left-back is also desired – but who is most likely to finalise a deal according to Football Whispers?
(1 – unlikely, 5 – very likely)
Departures
Alberto Moreno and Daniel Sturridge were both released at the end of the season after being deemed surplus to requirements at Anfield.
The Spanish left-back has already been linked with a return to Sevilla while Sturridge has been attracting attention from Premier League rivals.
2. Divock Origi (to Barcelona) – 3.1
Origi was out of favour at Anfield for much of the season but scored vital winners against Everton and Newcastle before hitting a double against Barcelona and scoring in the Champions League final.
Liverpool want the Belgian to stay at the club, although Barca were said to be keen on the striker as a back-up to Luis Suarez.
1. Simon Mignolet (to Norwich City) – 3.3
Last month several reports linked Mignolet with a move to Norwich as the Canaries prepare for life in the Premier League.
However, Norwich sporting director Stuart Webber has laughed off speculation of a £15million bid – suggesting the club do not have those funds to spend on a goalkeeper.
Arrivals
6. Lorenzo Insigne (Napoli) – 2.8
Liverpool were credited with serious interest in Insigne by Corriere dello Sport last month, although Klopp downplayed any potential move by suggesting the forward’s contract until 2022 would be difficult to navigate.
However, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has admitted he may not be able to keep hold of his captain – sparking rumours of a switch.
5. Adrien Rabot (Paris Saint-Germain) – 3.0
Looked set to join Barcelona at the start of the summer upon the expiration of his contract at Paris Saint-Germain but a move never materialised.
Real Madrid were also monitoring the Frenchman but interest has cooled so now Liverpool are in the box seat although Manchester United are also thought to be keen.
4. Isco (Real Madrid) – 3.1
The Real Madrid star fell out of favour at the Bernabeu during the previous campaign and has been tipped for a move to the Premier League.
Manchester United are said to be keen while the Spaniard is sure to cost a hefty fee with his current contract running until 2022.
3. Matthijs de Ligt (Ajax) – 3.4
It has been suggested that Klopp was looking to make a swoop for De Ligt in order to partner him with compatriot Virgil Van Dijk in central defence.
However, it now appears as if the Reds will not pay the £60m required for the 19-year-old due to them boasting a wealth of other options at centre-back – leaving United, Barcelona and Juventus free to battle it out for the Ajax captain.
2. Steven Bergwijn (PSV Eindhoven) – 3.5
The 21-year-old is one of the most sought-after wingers in Europe and is said to be a target for Liverpool, United and Bayern Munich.
Bergwijn would offer Klopp more options out wide but United appear to be ahead in the race to sign the PSV ace.
1. Nicolas Pepe (Lille) – 4.0
Liverpool are already in negotiations with Lille over Pepe, according to RMC Sports’ Mohamed Bouhafsi.
Bayern Munich are also reportedly talking t the Ligue 1 club while Arsenal have been touted as another club interested in the 24-year-old after a season which saw him score 22 goals and provide 11 assists.