Liverpool contacted Flamengo about signing Reinier Jesus, prior to his move to Real Madrid, according to his father.
The 18-year-old joined the Liga giants for £26 million earlier this week, having impressed greatly in Brazil.
Described as a ‘wonderkid’ by Sport Witness, the midfielder has one cap to his name for Brazil’s Under-23 side.
In an interview with Cadena Ser, via Sport, Reinier’s father, Mauro Carvalho, has confirmed that Liverpool were one of a host of top clubs keen on signing the teenager:
There were contacts with Barca, but very weak, nothing as strong as Real, who came and made the offer.
There were also contacts with Juventus, Arsenal, Liverpool, Borussia and Ajax.
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I don’t believe Liverpool’s interest in Reinier was ever too strong, with Madrid always appearing to be his most likely destination.
Brazilian players are often attracted to move to Spain, namely Madrid or Barcelona.
It will be interesting to see how Reinier fares in Europe, perhaps showing whether or not Liverpool missed a trick not acquiring his signature.
There is no guarantee that young starlets can make the step up in another continent, however, as they adjust to a new playing style and culture.
Robinho failed to excel at either Real Madrid or Manchester City, as an example, having moved from Brazil with a huge reputation.
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