Liverpool could be facing a tense transfer battle with Napoli for hugely exciting Brazilian talent Allan Elias.
The 21-year-old Palmeiras star is attracting serious interest from around Europe after breaking through as one of the most exciting attackers in Brazil. Liverpool have been monitoring Allan for a few months now, and were considered to be in a strong position to sign him from the Brazilian Serie A.
Now, though, Napoli have entered the picture. And with Palmeiras already listening to bids, this looks like a situation that could develop quickly once the window opens.
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Palmeiras reject Napoli bids for Allan Elias amid Liverpool interest
Allan is a left-footed right winger who can also operate as an attacking midfielder.
He is quick, technical and naturally suited to cutting in from the right flank. Given Liverpool’s need to replace Mohamed Salah, it is not difficult to see why they would be interested.
The Brazilian reportedly has a release clause worth around £87m, but it is unlikely Palmeiras would need that full figure to sell.
Andre Hernan has now suggested Napoli have already tried their luck twice, only for Palmeiras to reject both offers.
He told ESPN Brazil: “It’s also important to mention that Palmeiras is playing hardball, but at this moment, we have Napoli who have already had two offers rejected.
“We are starting to explore the situation, trying to understand what will happen in the transfer window, whether Palmeiras will sell, whether Palmeiras will accept a deal after the rejections, and also the inquiries and interest from clubs in England about the deal.
“Palmeiras rejected €30 million, rejected €35 million, you know, obviously, they’re holding out. These contacts often come directly to the club, often through Allan’s representatives. But Palmeiras plays hardball in every sense, whether it’s a direct offer from a club or an offer from a representative.
“So it’s a decision that the president will have to make together with the board because the market will be strong and Allan Elias will receive offers or approaches during this transfer window. There is a strong market presence in England and we also have a significant market in Napoli.”
We have seen young Brazilian stars like Estevao Willian and Endrick make similar moves in recent seasons.
Estevao has looked unbelievable at Chelsea despite their struggles in the Premier League, while Endrick has bounced back from initial issues at Real Madrid and is now starring for Lyon.
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There is every reason to believe Allan could be another player of that ilk. It looks like a bid of £40 to £50 million would be needed.
Liverpool have no deal in place with Allan, and Napoli’s rejected bids show this will not be a free run. But all signs point to him being a top target this summer, if the Reds can move decisively enough to beat the competition.
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