Liverpool have not really been focused on recruiting elite young talent.
The club’s transfers over the past few seasons have reflected that. Since Jurgen Klopp’s era the reds have looked to buy experienced first team stars. Under Michael Edwards’ guidance, the club focused on finding value in the transfer market.
Liverpool assembled one of the best attacks in Europe for €123million. A fee that Premier League clubs buy one player for in the current market. Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino turned the club’s fortunes around. The trio lead Liverpool to a Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup among other trophies.
The reds could have a different approach this summer, as they target a big move for this Premier League player.
Quiz: Can you name the team Liverpool sold these players to?
Watford to win race with Liverpool for South American star
Despite not having a youth recruitment policy, Liverpool have had some success buying young players. The club signed Harvey Elliot in 2019, and he has turned out to be a solid first team player. Over the last few years, the reds have also signed Sepp van den Berg, Fabio Carvalho and Stefan Bajcetic. Liverpool made a profit selling Carvalho and van den Berg last summer.
According to Alan Nixon, Watford are set to beat Liverpool in a race for Neyser Villareal. The 19-year old Colombian striker currently plays for Millonarios in his homeland. Villareal is reportedly valued at £5million. Nixon reports that multiple clubs in Europe have had an eye on the youngster. He has been likened to former Aston Villa star Jhon Duran.
Neyser Villareal caught the eye in the recent South American U20 Championship. He scored a hattrick against Paraguay. The 19-year old has a phenomenal record at youth level, he has 10 goals in 14 appearances for Colombia’s U-20 team.
Premier League sides Liverpool and Newcastle are expected to push for a move for Villareal, whose current deal expires in December. Millonarios are looking to sell him this summer.
Villareal could be worth the risk
Many Premier League clubs are now scouting across the globe for the next big talent. Chelsea and Brighton have had some success scouting South American talents. Brighton made over a £100million off Moises Caicedo, who they signed for a small fee from Ecuador.
Liverpool might find their next starting striker in South America for less than that fee.
About the Author
