Liverpool LOVE bargain midfielder and talks are set

A few weeks ago, it was reported the club were interested in defensive midfielder Samuele Ricci.

An Anfield Watch exclusive reported that club scouts have been very impressed by the Italian midfielder's performances at Torino and had initially enquired about the Italian last summer, but were put off by his €60 million price tag.

The 23-year-old is clearly an up-and-coming talent having cemented himself as a key player in the starting line-up for his national team and he is regarded as a treasure to his club.

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Moreover, Richard Hughes has good experience and links in the Italian market with the signing of Federico Chiesa being an example.

It seems as though Liverpool however were not willing to entertain the transfer fee, however, things have reportedly changed.

Ricci adored by Liverpool

According to a piece by Sport Mediaset, the hunt for Ricci will begin in the January transfer window.

Liverpool are said to “like him a lot” and are willing to battle with Inter Milan and Manchester City for his signature.

His contract is set to expire in 2026 and there have been no signs of an extension at the player's current club.

Moreover, his fee has been reduced.

The price is set “around €35 million” which is considered incredibly attainable in Liverpool’s eyes.

The signing of Ricci would also be a perfect and cheaper replacement for Martin Zubimendi who the Reds missed out on last summer.

Although Ryan Gravenberch has done a stellar job of covering that role, it would be beneficial to have a player who challenges for this spot and has the right characteristics for it.

If the board do pursue Zubimendi and miss out, with City also after his services, then Ricci would be another fantastic option.

Even if the deal isn’t completed in January, there is a high chance it will be in the summer if a new deal isn’t offered to the player. It is a matter of sitting and waiting for Liverpool in this case.

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