Liverpool are reportedly keeping tabs on Sporting Lisbon star Pedro Goncalves, who is attracting interest from a host of Premier League clubs.
According to 90min, the 24-year-old is being watched by Jurgen Klopp’s side, alongside Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Tottenham, with the north London giants believed to be the club most interested in signing the former Wolves talent.
With a release clause of €80m (£70m), the likes of Liverpool will have to splash the cash if they’re to sign Goncalves, who this season has been one of the most productive players in Europe with 18 goals and 12 assists in all competitions.
Able to play as a winger and a central midfielder, Goncalves’ versatility could has made the Portuguese international an interesting target for the likes of Liverpool, as well as his ability to taunt Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka. However, the 24-year-old’s release clause could cause some issues.
Indeed, £70m is an outrageous sum of money to spend on one player from Liverpool’s point of view, with the Reds eager to bring in numerous new faces to help overhaul the squad into something that could again challenge for the Premier League title.
Liverpool should pass on Goncalves despite impressive record this season
Any midfielder who has bagged double digits in both goals and assists this season should be worth Liverpool’s attention, yet with Sporting well aware of the fee they could demand for Goncalves, the Merseyside club would be wise to avoid being drawn into a transfer battle for the 24-year-old.
With Liverpool clearly working within a budget this summer, splashing £70m could result in the Reds sacrificing another signing further down the line, even with Goncalves being one of the most productive players in Europe this season and clearly ready for a return to the Premier League.