Liverpool, as per the norm, cease to be linked with players from all over Europe with beginning of the Euros failing to stem the tide of rumours.
There are reports emerging from Italy that Liverpool could swoop in to sign Porto’s highly rated midfielder, Hector Herrera.
These reports come from Gazzetta, claiming that the Mexican international, who is sought after by Napoli, could join Liverpool ahead of next season. The Serie A runners up for the 2015/16 season have bid €18 million which is just short of Porto’s valuation which stands at €20 million.
Liverpool are looking to strengthen in midfield with Jürgen Klopp having already signed Marko Grujić from Red Star Belgrade. While the Serb has received rave reviews he is unlikely to light up the Premier League during his debut season in England.
Herrera, on the other hand, is a player that could transform Liverpool. His typically South American approach to football would suit Liverpool’s style massively. He is a player, much like Emre Can in that he is an efficient force in a pressing system while also capable of dictating play while in possession. The Mexican scored 14 goals and provided 14 assists. His influence on each game is significant.
The 26-year old would also bring European experience that could prove invaluable to a team as inexperienced of what is expected in Europe’s elite competition.
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One thing which is crystal clear, amidst all the transfer gloom, is that Mario Balotelli’s future lies away from Liverpool. The only thing that is unclear is where he will go.
It was rumoured that the Italian was close to a move to Turkish club Besiktas. This has been ruled out and quite understandably. It is difficult to name a club that would be entirely willing to have Balotelli. The former Manchester City striker has had issues with his attitude.
Mino Raiola, Balotelli’s agent, can be quoted as saying that he was close to joining Besiktas. The club’s sporting director, Erdal Torunogullari was quick in ruling out the move. He told the Mirror:
“We know Raiola well. He’s even said Balotelli will go to Besiktas, but it’s not like that. We’re not interested, our priority is to hold on to Mario Gomez.”
Can you name a footballer more unwanted than Mario Balotelli?
Joao Teixeira, a player who never quite maxed out his potential, is set to complete a move to Porto. According to the Guardian, Teixeira has negotiated a contract which will see him return to Portugal. It is also mentioned that Liverpool will receive, in line with a FIFA stipulation, €300,000 in training compensation.
Teixeira failed to impose himself on manager, Jürgen Klopp’s plans for the future. He only made 3 appearances last season demonstrating his lack of importance to a team overflowing with attacking midfielders.
He may have the last laugh, however, as he could appear in the Champions League while no Liverpool players will.
According to Noticias Minuto, via the Liverpool Echo, Liverpool have had a £20 million bid for Islam Slimani rejected. The Algerian scored 27 goals last season and is a forward attracting a lot of interest.
Sporting Lisbon’s manager, Jorge Jesus has claimed that Slimani would score a lot of goals if he moved to the Premier League. The transition from a league like the Primeira Liga to England’s top flight is a tough one but the player’s manager seems certain that he could make the leap.
Slimani would be a great addition to the team while it is difficult to see where he would slot in with Liverpool not short on forwards.