A second report now claims Liverpool want Issa Diop. The Reds could face some tough competition for the player, however.
This comes from Foot Mercato in France. They claim Liverpool want Issa Diop before the transfer window closes on Monday.
Their report comes as the Athletic make the same suggestion. They believe Liverpool want a simple loan, whereas West Ham United would prefer a £20m obligation to buy.
Foot Mercato’s report does differ, though. They say that while Liverpool do want Diop, they’re not the only ones. Teams from both Italy and Spain like the player, with Internazionale named.
What RTK has to say
We think there are some real positives in moving for Diop – but also some real uncertainties. Signing him for £20m would affect Liverpool’s summer in a negative fashion.
He’s also barely played this season – is he fit enough to contribute over the next few months? If not, the signing is largely pointless.
But the dual reports do suggest there’s something to this. Liverpool must feel there’s a potential loan deal there, even if they might need to sacrifice something to get it done.
Hopefully, that’s not an obligation to buy. It’s just too risky if Diop flops. Perhaps an expensive loan fee could convince West Ham but they’d surely benefit from any short-term deal.
Liverpool are offering to put the player in the ultimate shop window – essentially, the opposite of him sitting on West Ham’s bench.
Liverpool may not want to pay £20m for him but if he played well under Jurgen Klopp, you can bet that someone would. Diop would be one of the most notable defenders in the Premier League over the next few months – that’s a lot of eyes on him.
Whatever happens, though, this is definitely one to keep your eyes on.
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