Liverpool have once again been named as a suitor for Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge this summer.
Previously linked earlier in the year, the Reds are believed to be among the suitors still keen on the Norwegian enforcer.
This time there is interest from Aston Villa, Arsenal and Napoli to add to the bargain, however, all share a similar concern.
According to a report from Football League World, as cited by The Bladesmen on Twitter, the 23-year-old’s injury record is a major worry for interested parties.
Twitter: Arsenal, Villa, Liverpool + Napoli are being put off meeting Sander Berge’s 35m release clause due to his injury re… https://t.co/xcjVHvF9Vz (@The_Bladesman)
The report claims the recently relegated Yorkshire club will demand £35million for their asset – a fee that has raised eyebrows following major surgery to a hamstring tendon last season.
Liverpool are said to want ‘medical assurances’ before advancing any pursuit for the 24-cap man.
Berge missed 21 games during the 2020/21 campaign, featuring in the first 13 Premier League outings prior to the setback.
Previously described as a ‘very interesting player’ by Jurgen Klopp, the Norwegian scored a penalty at Anfield in October to give the visitors the lead.
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Signing a relegated star, perhaps even to replace Gini Wijnaldum who was also signed following the drop, would be nothing new to the Reds.
Whilst the central midfielder’s qualities are there for all to see, shelling out £35million for a player with a troublesome injury record would be a major risk.
Having suffered so badly with absentees last term, Klopp would surely be reticent to sign anyone that could take up another regular spot on the treatment table.
Valued at £16.2million and under contract at Bramall Lane until 2024 (Transfermarkt), Liverpool will have to drive a hard bargain in order to make the deal a feasible one.
