Liverpool interest in top-rated Argentinian destroyer now in doubt

Fresh doubts have been cast on the strength of the links between Liverpool and FC Porto midfielder Alan Varela, despite Portuguese outlet O Jogo's claim at the weekend that the Reds were considering doing battle with Manchester City for his signature.

Speculation over a potential move to England for the holding midfielder initially surfaced in Portugal over a month ago, with not only Liverpool and Manchester City but also Newcastle United expressing interest in the 22-year-old.

Varela's standout performance against Arsenal in the Champions League last 16 first leg last week will no doubt have piqued further interest from English clubs, inflating the Argentinian's price tag in the process.

However, despite the growing buzz surrounding the combative midfielder, doubts have now emerged regarding the extent of Liverpool and Manchester City's pursuit.

Scouting list

Following Porto's victory over Arsenal, a list of scouts present at the game was made public. Interestingly, there were representatives of Aston Villa, Manchester United and West Ham at the crucial match, but not Liverpool or Manchester City.

This revelation has certainly raised eyebrows and how now cast doubt on the veracity of the Premier League giants' reported interest, especially given that this was a unique opportunity to see him in action against an English opponent.

While it's plausible that the clubs opted for a discreet approach by purchasing general tickets, such tactics are uncommon for their scouting operations in Portugal and raises questions about the strength of their reported interest.

The right profile

Both teams would certainly benefit from signing a player of this profile. Liverpool only have Wataru Endo as a specialist 'number six', while the same could be said of Manchester City and Rodri after the departure of Kalvin Phillips.

At 22, Varela is at a good age for the long term. Therefore, it will come as no surprise to see the competition for his signature hotting up ahead of the summer.