Luiz Henrique: Liverpool linked with move for Real Betis winger

While much of the summer focus appears to be on new midfield additions, a forward could still be on the agenda for Liverpool this transfer window, if reports out of Spain are to be believed.

According to Fichajes.net, Brazilian forward Luiz Henrique could be headed to Anfield after a standout debut season with Spanish side Real Betis.

The 22-year-old made 43 appearances in all competitions for the Seville-based club last season, after making an €8m switch from Brazilian side Fluminense in July 2022.

In a campaign during which he featured in almost every game, Luiz Henrique scored three goals (including two in the Europa League) and provided seven assists as Manuel Pellegrini's side finished in a respectable sixth place.

El Nacional report that the Reds are now prepared to pay around €30m (£25.6m) for the Brazil under-20 international. However, Estadio Deportivo say the winger's price tag is actually just €18-20m (£15-17m) However, Liverpool are not the only ones credited with an interest, with the report name-checking La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona, as well as Unai Emery's Aston Villa, French champions Paris Saint-Germain and Italian side Juventus.

Backup for Salah?

Despite playing in various positions across the frontline, Luiz Henrique plays mostly from the right wing and would be seen as an understudy to Mohamed Salah should he make the switch.

With the Egyptian just turning 31, Klopp and his staff may be thinking it's time for his game time to be managed more if he is to achieve longevity into his mid or even late-30s.

And with youngsters Ben Doak (17) and Kaide Gordon (18) perhaps not quite ready to make the step-up on a regular basis, the signing of Luiz Henrique might make more sense than it may first appear — even if the links are somewhat dubious.

While further strengthening the midfield and the signing of a left-sided centre-back are the priority, it mustn't be forgotten that Liverpool are still two forwards down on their 2022/23 squad, following the departures of Roberto Firmino and Fabio Carvalho. The addition of yet another versatile forward could be what's required.