Liverpool could have been handed a boost in the pursuit of FC Porto midfielder Otavio this summer.
The 26-year-old Brazilian ace appears to be among the leading Reds’ targets as Jurgen Klopp goes in search of a Gini Wijnaldum replacement.
This comes as reports from Portugal claim Otavio has seen a release clause increase from £34million to £51.5million at the beginning of July.
Now, the star’s agent has seemingly sanctioned any approach from Liverpool, as quoted by A Bola and cited The Anfield Talk on Twitter.
Twitter: Otavio’s agent Israel Oliveira has stated that his client can move to Liverpool ‘if it’s good for Porto and for Ota… https://t.co/cZ0i8BOLhx (@TheAnfieldTalk)
The report claims the 2020/21 Primeira Liga runners-up would now be willing to accept a ‘fair’ price for their man.
One other factor that could influence any deal is Porto’s desire to sign Marko Grujic after the Serbian impressed on loan last season.
Otavio has been capped on five occasions by Brazil at youth level and has become a mainstay in the Porto side since signing for £2.25million from Internacional back in 2014 (Transfermarkt).
Barring a short loan spell at Vitoria Guimarães for the 2015/16 campaign, the Brazilian attacking midfielder has made 188 appearances for the Dragons, scoring 19 times and registering another 49 assists.
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Whilst adding midfield numbers to the ranks is viewed by many as imperative, Otavio would be far-flung from a like for like replacement for Wijnaldum.
Predominantly an attack-minded midfielder, the £21.6million valued ace is capable of playing in a variety of positions across the park, including on either wing.
Perhaps more in the mould of Philippe Coutinho, Liverpool would certainly benefit from the addition, albeit perhaps not the arrival many expect to replenish the missing Dutchman.
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