Liverpool are considering a move for Real Betis star Guido Rodriguez and now Arsenal and Marseille have entered the fray.
La Razon first reported that Liverpool have ‘threatened the continuity’ of Rodriguez at Betis as they consider taking him to Anfield.
The report states that although the midfielder has an €80million release clause in his contract with Betis, they would be willing to let him leave for just €30m.
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – FEBRUARY 17: Guido Rodriguez #5 of America reacts during the seventh round match between Pumas UNAM and America as part of the Torneo Clausura 2019 Liga MX at Olimpico Universitario Stadium on February 17, 2019 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
As per ABC Sevilla, Rodriguez has attracted Mikel Arteta’s attention and both Arsenal and Marseille have ‘tested’ Betis without submitting a formal offer.
As La Razon stated, they are willing to let him leave for €30m despite the €80m release clause in his contract.
ABC Sevilla claims that Betis ‘would be willing to negotiate’ but will ‘not give away’ one of their best players without receiving a good price.
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – DECEMBER 09: Guido Rodriguez #5 of America celebrates with teammates after scoring the 4th goal of his team during the semifinal second leg match between America and Pumas UNAM as part of the Torneo Apertura 2018 Liga MX at Azteca Stadium on December 9, 2018 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
Fichajes report that Betis want €50m for Rodriguez to which Liverpool reportedly responded to by offering Divock Origi or Joel Matip in order to bring the price down.
Do we think Liverpool event want Rodriguez?
No – not really. Unless Jurgen Klopp is about to turn into Jose Mourinho and deploy a double pivot of Fabinho and Guido, I can’t see Liverpool chasing him.
The Real Betis midfielder is a monster. Strong, brave in the tackle and a vocal leader much like our own Jordan Henderson but he’s not likely to want to sit on the bench at 27.
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – FEBRUARY 17: Guido Rodriguez #5 of America reacts during the seventh round match between Pumas UNAM and America as part of the Torneo Clausura 2019 Liga MX at Olimpico Universitario Stadium on February 17, 2019 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
Moreover, Liverpool are looking for a no.8 to replace Georginio Wijnaldum after the Dutchman’s contract expired.
I’ll happily eat humble pie if he winds up doing the Kirkby Lean (is that a thing now?) by the time the summer window comes to a close but I personally cannot see it happening.
Most Liverpool fans are hoping that the summer ends with Saul Niguez at Anfield but my gut feeling is that one of Manchester United or Barcelona will beat them to the punch.
