Liverpool are set to increase their attempts to sign Barcelona midfielder Gavi, who is still yet to sign a new contract at the Spanish club.
That’s according to Sport, who claim that The Reds have ‘stepped up their interest’ in the 17-year-old.
They report that contract talks are ongoing, though Gavi and his entourage ‘sense’ that Barca’s offer will be lower than their demands.
This has led to Liverpool intensifying their position on bringing the youngster to Anfield. However, it is also reported that ‘barring a major surprise,’ Gavi will sign a deal to remain at Barcelona.
Sport claim that Liverpool are joined in their interest by both Bayern Munich and PSG.
Comparisons with an icon
Gavi is a name that the football world has become familiar with over the course of this season. Having broken into the side under Ronald Koeman, he has kicked on under the management of Barcelona legend Xavi.
Still only seventeen, he has already played 40 times for Barca, and has six caps for the Spanish national side.
His impact in Catalonia has been so great that it has drawn some lofty comparisons. Writing for BBC Sport in March, journalist Guillem Balague compared his ease at settling into first-team life at Barca to that of a certain Lionel Messi.
His emergence could come at a cost to Barcelona, though. With a contract containing a release clause of a reported £41m, he could be available on the cheap this summer.
Potential for a bargain
Over £40m may seem a good chunk of money for a 17-year-old. But given Gavi’s rapid rise to prominence and the potential he possesses, it could be seen as a bargain.
Gavi’s contract renewal should be a priority for Xavi. With only one year to run on his current deal, he could still end up leaving for nothing next year.
Liverpool are reportedly plotting a move for another teenaged midfield sensation – Jude Bellingham (The Mirror). Gavi’s availability for a fraction of the cost of the Englishman could well be another option for the notoriously shrewd Reds.
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