Liverpool enter talks to sign midfielder in £60m deal; contract already discussed

Liverpool are setting their sights on strengthening their midfield with the addition of Alan Varela, the 22-year-old defensive midfielder from Porto.

Varela's name has emerged as a key interest for the Merseyside club.

Last week, I wrote that it would interesting to see if Liverpool bid for the midfielder and now it appears that possibility is drawing closer and closer.

Journalist Luis Fregossi has disclosed that the Reds have initiated discussions with Porto, hinting at the possibility of a significant bid for the Argentine.

Varela, whose contract boasts a €70 million (£60m) release clause, could be the subject of an ambitious move by Liverpool as they consider meeting Porto's valuation.

Varela has become an indispensable figure at Porto, and his profile aligns perfectly with Liverpool's need for a youthful yet talented defensive midfielder.

The Reds' attempts to secure similar talents earlier, including Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, didn't materialise, leading them to acquire Wataru Endo.

While Endo has been a solid presence for Liverpool, his age prompts the need for a younger successor, positioning Varela as an ideal candidate.

The potential of this 22-year-old midfielder to grow and become a cornerstone in Liverpool's setup is evident. Varela has the attributes necessary to disrupt opposition play and provide robust protection for the back four.

Moreover, Varela's Argentine heritage and the prospect of pairing with compatriot Alexis Mac Allister could pave the way for a formidable central partnership for Liverpool.

The allure of joining one of the best clubs in world football is undoubtedly a significant draw for Varela, who is likely eager to see a transfer agreement reached.

At Liverpool, a club renowned for its nurturing environment for young talent, Varela would have the ideal platform to unlock his full potential.

The move to England and the promise of regular top-flight football could be the catalyst for Varela's rapid evolution, propelling him onto the main stage and offering Liverpool the midfield dynamo they seek for the long term.