Liverpool have suffered a potentially significant blow in their pursuit of Lille midfielder Renato Sanches.
What’s the story?
The Reds have been linked with a move for the highly-rated 23-year-old throughout the summer as manager Jurgen Klopp continues to search for Gini Wijnaldum’s successor.
However, according to French outlet Le10 Sport, La Liga giants Barcelona have now agreed personal terms with Sanches but have yet to agree a fee with Lille, so Liverpool will need to act quickly if they’re serious about signing the Portugal international.
Jurgen Klopp will be gutted
Following Wijnaldum’s decision to depart Anfield following five successful seasons on Merseyside, several central midfielders have reportedly caught the eye of the 19-time English champions. Liverpool have also been credited with an interest in the likes of Saul Niguez and Nicolo Barella, but news of Barcelona’s move for Sanches will surely leave Klopp feeling gutted.
After a hugely disappointing loan spell with Swansea City during the 2017/18 campaign, the box-to-box dynamo has rebuilt his career with Les Dogues over the last couple of years.
Sanches made 23 Ligue 1 appearances for Lille last term, playing a big part in their outstanding run to the title, and his contribution to their success saw the £27m-rated gem described as a “machine” by Lille’s official Twitter feed in April.
Wijnaldum’s unique blend of technical ability, tactical understanding and physical prowess makes the Dutch international an extremely hard man to replace, but Sanches has the assets to do just that.
Over the last year, the youngster made 6.65 progressive passes, 7.75 progressive carries and 2.54 completed dribbles per game, as per fbref.com, highlighting his influence and impressive performances with the reigning French champions, whilst he also played very well for Portugal at Euro 2020.
Therefore, this latest revelation regarding Sanches’ future may leave Klopp very frustrated as the new campaign fast approaches.
With Barca’s finances in a desperate and dire state, it remains to be seen whether they can stump up the funds required to prise Sanches away from the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, but Liverpool supporters may be left deflated that personal terms with the Catalan club have already been agreed. That will no doubt lessen the Reds’ chances of landing the 23-year-old.
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