Liverpool 'favourites' to land Brazilian starlet Lucas Beraldo

Liverpool are reportedly favourites to land 19-year-old Sao Paolo defender Lucas Beraldo.

After impressing in his native Brazil, the Reds have been linked with Beraldo in recent weeks - with some even hinting that a move in January could be on the cards.

Now, UOL columnist Rafael Reis has offered a glowing endorsement of the Brazilian's potential, citing Liverpool as a side that know all about the qualities he possesses.

Reis wrote: "As he only has a year and a few months of professional career and experience only in Brazilian football, he still needs to be tested a little more before effectively fighting for a place in the Canarian team.

"But Beraldo has plenty of potential. And Liverpool, the favourite club to take him from Sao Paulo, knows this very well."

It seems, as of yet, Liverpool haven't initiated anything at all in regards to this deal - something Fabrizio Romano recently said himself. That doesn't mean a move couldn't happen, though.

Journalist Jorge Nicola recently provided an update on the situation, highlighting the opportunity for a move to occur in the winter window due to its timing in the Brazilian off-season.

On top of that, the teenager is unlikely to cost all that much - claims that Beraldo would cost around £20m are seen as highly unlikely as it would be a record for a defender out of the Brazilian league.

Therefore, there is undoubtedly scope for a move to happen. But before Liverpool put their foot in the door, this is all simply speculation.