Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

IMAGE CREDITS: GETTY IMAGES

Liverpool have reportedly started formal discussions with Porto midfielder Alan Varela as they gear up for the upcoming summer transfer window.

As the Reds continue their search for a new manager, preparations are underway behind the scenes to revamp the squad for the 2024/25 season.

Among their potential targets is Varel – the 22-year-old defensive midfielder who has impressed since joining Porto last summer.

According to Argentine journalist Luis Fregossi, Liverpool have began ‘formal talks’ with FC Porto for Alan Varela.

The Reds are the team that is closest to hiring the former Boca midfielder?

Boca Juniors will receive 20% of the sale that will surely take place in June.

Varela has earned comparisons to the legendary Javier Mascherano because of his nationality and tenacious playing style.

Upon his move to Europe last August, Varela signed a five-year contract with Porto, having already amassed 111 senior appearances for Boca Juniors.

The Portuguese club has reportedly set a €70 million (£60m/$76m) price tag on the Argentine Under-20 international.

Liverpool’s interest in Varela remains steadfast, with reports from Portuguese newspaper O Jogo indicating that scouts closely monitored his performance during Porto’s recent 2-1 defeat to Vitoria SC.

However, Liverpool face competition in their pursuit of Varela, as several top clubs including Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, and Borussia Dortmund have also been linked with the talented midfielder.

Under the coordination of the newly appointed sporting director Richard Hughes and assistant David Woodfine, along with the guidance of Fenway Sports Group’s CEO of Football Michael Edwards, and Liverpool’s recruitment staff, the club is actively strategizing its summer transfer targets.

The approach is shifting towards a more data-driven process, marking a departure from the previous seasons where Jurgen Klopp held more authority in recruitment decisions.

Given Liverpool’s interest in the Portuguese market, particularly with Sporting CP’s Ruben Amorim rumoured to be a front-runner to succeed Jurgen Klopp, Varela has emerged as a promising candidate capable of making the leap to a higher level.

Read more: Pep Guardiola delivers honest verdict on Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp

Mido repeats Mohamed Salah advice with new up and coming star

Liverpool predicted XI to face Fulham

Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone
For more news relating to Manchester City, visit our sister site City Latest Live.