Liverpool right in the mix to sign £34m player, his future will be decided this week

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Liverpool are set to do battle with Benfica for the signing of Feyenoord captain Orkun Kokcu this summer.

The Reds have been linked with a move for the versatile Turkey international as part of their midfield rebuild. And according to Dutch outlet 1908, they are indeed right in mix to sign Kokcu.

They’re not the favourites, though. That distinction reportedly rests firmly with Benfica. The Portuguese giants are said to be in ‘pole position’ to land the 22-year-old and are ready to pay £34m to bring him to Lisbon – a record figure for Feyenoord in terms of a player sale.

If Liverpool would be willing to equal or better that offer isn’t speculated upon. But it is reported that the Reds are breathing down Benfica’s necks, just behind them in the race.

With all that in mind, the week ahead is said to be an important one for Kokcu. Benfica are reportedly awaiting his decision, and will push on in the ‘very short-term’ to get a deal over the line.

Kokcu in Liverpool’s thoughts

Kokcu is an interesting name that has been thrown up a couple of times in regards to Liverpool’s summer spree.

Although at the moment it feels like others are more likely to join, we wouldn’t rule him out just yet.

Certainly, the fee being mentioned appears to be what Liverpool are aiming towards this off-season. They won’t be spending £60-70m or more on players, no matter how that might disappoint fans.

Instead, they’re clearly looking for value for money. That doesn’t necessarily mean ‘cheap’ players, but one’s who they feel they can mould into being worth two or three times that amount in a couple of years.

Some fans may scoff at that, but it’s exactly how Liverpool created their first super team under Jurgen Klopp.

The likes of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Gini Wijnaldum, even Fabinho were brought in for similar fees. That £30-45m sweet-spot. That’s where the Reds do their business.

That might have looked set to change considering the fees being quoted for the imminent arrival Alexis Mac Allister. But even on a World Cup winner, Liverpool look to have got him for their favoured number. The likes of Manu Kone and Khephren Thuram look like being similar prices, and with Kokcu also in that bracket, we’re keeping an eye on this. Get ready for a busy old week, Reds.