Liverpool make breakthrough in chase for 'New Rivaldo'

Liverpool will submit a bid for highly promising Brazilian starlet Luis Guilherme in the coming days, according to reports in Brazil. 

Guilherme turned 18 in February which means he is now eligible for a transfer to Europe. He had already caught the eye of Bayern Munich and Chelsea, among other European giants, but it is the Reds who are readying an offer for the Palmeiras wonderkid, following recent reports of their interest.

Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola has been following Guilherme’s development for a long time and says that Liverpool club representatives recently travelled to the city of Sao Paulo in order to discuss a transfer with the player’s entourage and the club. 

It is hoped that the Carabao Cup winners can get a deal done ahead of the summer transfer window. 

Guilherme has been likened to 2002 World Cup winner and Palmeiras favourite Rivaldo thanks to his silky left foot and ability to glide past markers. 

He broke into the first-team picture at Palmeiras in April 2023, signing a new contract with the reigning Brazilian champions back in November. 

That deal officially ties him to the Verdao until 2026 but includes a reported €55m (£47m) release clause. However, it has recently been reported that a bid of around €35m (£30m) plus bonuses could be enough to get a deal done.

Guilherme among Palmeiras best

Although he has yet to score for Palmeiras amid his first-team appearances, he is seen as a coming force in Brazilian football. 

His ascent has not been as rapid as team-mate Endrick, who will join up with Real Madrid for the 2024/25 LaLiga campaign, but he is nonetheless among the standout graduates of Palmeiras’ famed youth academy in recent seasons. 

Premier League players such as Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal and Nottingham Forest’s Danilo were forged in Palmeiras’ youth sector, bringing in hefty fees for the club.