Liverpool are reportedly keen on Inter Milan central midfielder Nicolo Barella this summer.
This comes as Jurgen Klopp continues to pursue a replacement for Gini Wijnaldum after the Dutchman left a huge hole in the Anfield squad.
Despite often dividing opinions, Wijnaldum possessed superb durability in the heart of the midfield – underlined by appearing in all 38 Premier League games last term.
According to Enrico Camelio during Calciomercato.it’s program ‘Calciomercato Show’, as cited by LFC Transfer Room on Twitter, Barella is among the potential contenders.
Twitter:
Liverpool have contacted Inter Milan regarding Nicolo Barella. They insist he’s not for sale, but they’ll have… https://t.co/F7Xcx4g5tn (@LFCTransferRoom)
Camelio claimed the Reds have ‘have asked for information’ on the possibility of signing the 24-year-old, although the Serie A giants were insistent no deal would be forthcoming.
Barella is currently impressing with the Italy squad at Euro 2020 and could be in line to face Belgium in the quarter-finals.
During 2020/21, the ace who was once hailed as a ‘baller’, contributed three goals and 10 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions.
READ LIVERPOOL VERDICT
Valued at £58.5million and under contract in Milan until 2024 (Transfermarkt), prizing the 26-cap star away from the San Siro would require a monumental fee.
In terms of quality, signing the Italian would no doubt fill the void left by Wijnaldum and perhaps even enhance the squad.
Not for strong passing ability, Barella would offer a slightly different midfield option to Klopp and could provide added ammunition to the forwards.
Give Inter’s perceived stance, however, any deal seems unlikely in this window at least.
