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“£33m Leverkusen Star’s Agent Negotiating with Liverpool Over Deal”

Liverpool are already making plans for a future without Trent Alexander-Arnold in the squad.

To clarify, the Merseysiders are still eager to retain their No. 66, if possible, despite significant interest from Spanish champions Real Madrid.

With this in mind, David Ornstein reported for The Athletic on Sunday that the Premier League title contenders have already made an offer to their vice-captain. The opening offer made to top scorer Mo Salah ensures that the Reds have secured agreements with key figures (including Virgil van Dijk) ahead of the winter transfer window.

If Liverpool fails to secure contract extensions before the January 1 deadline, foreign clubs will be free to discuss pre-contract agreements in the new year.

The pressure is mounting on sporting director Richard Hughes and the club’s players with expiring contracts.

True: Liverpool remain interested in Jeremie Frimpong

It is now understood that Liverpool has taken their interest in Jeremie Frimpong further by directly contacting the player’s agent, Dirk Hebel.

“Liverpool’s interest in Jeremie Frimpong has been confirmed again,” shared Christian Falk in his exclusive Fact Files column with CaughtOffside.

“I heard that his agent, Dirk Hebel, was invited by Liverpool for the match against Bayer Leverkusen. He was in the director’s box. So, you see the club and the player’s entourage are talking.”

How confident Arne Slot’s side is about Alexander-Arnold signing fresh terms at Anfield remains to be seen. The atmosphere around the club suggests that decision-makers are leaning toward optimism for now. However, transfers in football can shift quickly, so it’s possible that new developments in this contract saga could emerge.

That said, it’s important to note that Liverpool’s interest in the Leverkusen fullback does not necessarily mean Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to leave.

How much does Frimpong cost?

In a hypothetical scenario where the 26-year-old right-back departs the Merseyside club this summer, a £33m fee to bring in his potential replacement, Frimpong, would be considered a bargain.

“Frimpong has a release clause valued at €40m [£33m], and he’s also Dutch, like their new head coach, Arne Slot. So, they’re working on this deal as well,” the Bundesliga insider added.

The 24-year-old continues to shine as one of the most promising talents in world football. He has carried over his impressive 2023/24 form (26 goal contributions in 47 games) into the current season, with nine goal contributions in 22 games.

In fact, if Liverpool were to sign Frimpong for £33m, they would likely view it as one of the best deals of the summer transfer window.

December 13, 2024
Latest Update on Federico Chiesa and Diogo Jota’s Availability

Federico Chiesa and Diogo Jota may make their return to the Liverpool squad this weekend.

Both forwards have been sidelined since September and October, but they are now back in training with their teammates.

Liverpool will host Fulham in the Premier League at Anfield on Saturday, and Chiesa and Jota could be part of the squad.

Head coach Arne Slot commented during his pre-match press conference: “I think they are [available].”

“We have one training session to go. Federico missed quite a lot for a long time, was ill last week, so we have to wait and see how he is exactly doing. But maybe Diogo is in the squad and maybe Federico as well, but that depends a bit on the numbers we have and also how he recovered from his illness.”

Regarding Chiesa’s progress towards match fitness, Slot said: “What makes it difficult is that we play so many games. What he needs is playing time, and the problem is if you haven’t played for five or six months, it is sometimes difficult for a manager to give him his first minutes, because you don’t exactly know what you can expect. Yes, I see him on the training ground, but ideally, you see him in a friendly during the week or you see him in an U21 game or something like this – but that is not the situation we have, we play so many games.”

“Maybe the Southampton game might be a good moment for him to get some playing minutes and then we know a bit better what we can expect from him. Of course, we see his qualities, we know his qualities, but he needs to get this fitness level. If you only have training sessions, that is not the same as playing time. You need to have playing time to reach certain fitness levels. But if you are competing for the league and competing in the Champions League, it’s not always easy to find these minutes, unless we are sometimes 4-0 or 5-0 up.”

“But for the whole season, I think it was only once, against Bournemouth at home 3-0 up at half-time, for the rest it’s been a struggle or a fight until the last second of every game.”

More news…..

Exclusive news: Arsenal and Liverpool tracking Brazilian winger for possible transfer

Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly keeping an eye on highly-rated Brazilian winger Gabriel Pec of LA Galaxy, according to sources who spoke with CaughtOffside.

Both clubs, along with several other Premier League teams, have had scouts monitoring Pec, who is emerging as an exciting young prospect.

The 23-year-old has caught attention with his performances in the MLS, leading to interest from Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle, Crystal Palace, Fulham, Wolves, Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, and Napoli.

While Pec is being considered as a potential future target for top clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool, it is still uncertain whether they will make a move for him in the near future.

Nevertheless, it is clear that the South American talent is one to watch, and if he continues to impress with his form in the US, top clubs are likely to show interest in signing him.

Could Gabriel Pec be a surprise solution for Arsenal and Liverpool?

Pec could eventually offer something different for Arsenal’s attack, especially with Mikel Arteta facing a shortage of options in that area.

The Gunners often rely heavily on Bukayo Saka to create opportunities up front, but Pec could provide an alternative or even an upgrade on inconsistent players like Gabriel Martinelli. Moreover, loan signing Raheem Sterling is unlikely to remain at the Emirates Stadium beyond this season.

Liverpool, too, might want to explore new attacking options as Mohamed Salah’s contract nears its end, and Diogo Jota has struggled with injuries.

Although the Reds would need a truly exceptional player to replace someone of Salah’s caliber, Pec has the potential to become a key player for a club of Liverpool’s stature in the future.

December 13, 2024
“I made it clear to him” – Arne Slot’s detailed evaluation of Darwin Nunez at Liverpool

Arne Slot has expressed his confidence in Darwin Nunez, affirming that the striker remains an important player for Liverpool, despite recent frustrations. The Reds’ manager emphasized that Nunez’s value isn’t solely based on his goal tally. Although the 25-year-old has only scored three times this season, Slot has been impressed by his work ethic throughout the campaign.

Nunez missed multiple chances during Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Girona in Spain on Tuesday. The following morning, he took to social media to address the criticism surrounding his performances. However, Slot, who also confirmed that Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa could be back in contention for the Fulham match, praised Nunez’s overall contributions to the team.

When asked about Nunez’s frustration with his performance, Slot stated: “For me he has an impact. If you only look at goals, he hasn’t scored as many as he wants to score or we want a number nine to score.” He continued, “But he does have impact in his work rate and that’s not just to prevent the other team from making a chance, but also for us when we lose the ball to be aggressive and we can get the ball back and create chances.”

Slot highlighted that Nunez is part of a team that scores frequently and wins consistently, but acknowledged that, as a striker, he naturally wants to score more goals. He added, “I’m not only judging Mo (Salah) or Darwin on goals, I also judge on their work rate and what they bring to the team. That has been positive until now, except for us and him wanting to score more goals.”

The Liverpool manager also noted that Nunez’s desire to score could be amplified by the fans’ support, saying: “Maybe because the fans support him so much, he wants it almost too much, to score that goal for the fans and for himself.” He added that while Mo Salah currently doesn’t need as much fan support, it is the fans’ loyalty in times of difficulty that makes them special: “What I like about the fans is, they are not only supportive if it’s going really well but especially if he needs that support. That’s what makes our fans so special.”

While Slot admitted that Nunez’s performance in the last 30 minutes of the Girona match was not up to par, he emphasized the importance of supporting the striker when he isn’t scoring. He remarked: “When you miss the chances he did on Tuesday, everybody then needs an arm around you, whether it’s from a team-mate, from the fans or the manager.”

Slot made it clear that Nunez is evaluated not only on his goals but also on his contributions to the team’s overall performance. He stated, “He adds something to the team performance with his work rate, and how much he does for us winning the ball back high up the pitch.” He also expressed optimism, noting that Nunez might soon be scoring more frequently, saying: “Ideally he would have scored a few more goals but maybe in a few weeks you’ll ask me why Mo isn’t scoring anymore and Darwin is scoring every week.”

Slot concluded by acknowledging the nature of being a number nine, noting that scoring can be inconsistent. He said: “Sometimes you score, sometimes you don’t, but what should always be there is work rate and he has had that, apart from two games. First one against Las Palmas (in pre-season) and then the last half hour against Girona, wasn’t up to standards he should have and that was due to the disappointment he had after missing chances.”

December 13, 2024
Positive update as Ibrahima Konate returns earlier than expected – LFC journalist

Ibrahima Konate could return to action before the end of the month, with his recovery progressing faster than initially expected.

Konate has been sidelined since injuring his knee during Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Real Madrid on November 27, missing the team’s last three matches.

Although it was reported that the injury wasn’t severe, Arne Slot had expressed doubts about Konate’s return before the year ends, along with Conor Bradley and Kostas Tsimikas.

However, there is now optimism that Konate could be back before December finishes, which would be a significant boost for Liverpool.

David Lynch, a journalist covering Liverpool, shared an encouraging update after the 25-year-old returned to the gym without assistance. “He’s not in a knee brace now, so that’s encouraging,” Lynch told Anfield Agenda. “It kind of tallies with what I said, that it’s not quite that five-to-six weeks that was touted. There’s a real hope that he can be back before that. So hopefully back end of December we’ll see him, rather than into January, and what a boost that will be to get him straight back as well.”

Liverpool has five more matches before the end of the month, starting with a home game against Fulham on Saturday. After that, they’ll face Southampton in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday, followed by an away match against Tottenham next Sunday. It is likely that Konate will miss all three of these matches.

However, Lynch’s update suggests that the France international could be available during the period between Christmas and New Year, with Liverpool playing Leicester at home on December 26 and West Ham away on December 29.

During Konate’s absence, Slot has preferred Joe Gomez as Virgil van Dijk’s partner, and there is no indication this will change until Konate returns. Despite a mixed performance against Newcastle, Gomez has shown positive signs, meaning there’s less urgency for Konate to come back immediately.

Still, having Konate back before the year’s end would be a major advantage as Liverpool seeks to maintain its excellent form heading into 2025.

More news……

Exclusive news: Arsenal and Liverpool tracking Brazilian winger for possible transfer

Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly keeping an eye on highly-rated Brazilian winger Gabriel Pec of LA Galaxy, according to sources who spoke with CaughtOffside.

Both clubs, along with several other Premier League teams, have had scouts monitoring Pec, who is emerging as an exciting young prospect.

The 23-year-old has caught attention with his performances in the MLS, leading to interest from Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle, Crystal Palace, Fulham, Wolves, Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, and Napoli.

While Pec is being considered as a potential future target for top clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool, it is still uncertain whether they will make a move for him in the near future.

Nevertheless, it is clear that the South American talent is one to watch, and if he continues to impress with his form in the US, top clubs are likely to show interest in signing him.

Could Gabriel Pec be a surprise solution for Arsenal and Liverpool?

Pec could eventually offer something different for Arsenal’s attack, especially with Mikel Arteta facing a shortage of options in that area.

The Gunners often rely heavily on Bukayo Saka to create opportunities up front, but Pec could provide an alternative or even an upgrade on inconsistent players like Gabriel Martinelli. Moreover, loan signing Raheem Sterling is unlikely to remain at the Emirates Stadium beyond this season.

Liverpool, too, might want to explore new attacking options as Mohamed Salah’s contract nears its end, and Diogo Jota has struggled with injuries.

Although the Reds would need a truly exceptional player to replace someone of Salah’s caliber, Pec has the potential to become a key player for a club of Liverpool’s stature in the future.

December 12, 2024
Liverpool Transfer Update: Virgil van Dijk’s Brief Comment as Reds Secure Man City Prodigy

Liverpool may strengthen their squad in January as Arne Slot aims to sustain the Reds’ title challenge, but they have already secured a talented youngster from one of their closest competitors. The club has never hesitated to be active in the January transfer window.

Virgil van Dijk, currently Liverpool’s captain, is perhaps the most notable acquisition, having joined from Southampton in 2018. However, his future at the club is uncertain, with his contract expiring in a few months.

There are speculations that he could join Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold in leaving the club, as all three have yet to sign new deals. Despite this, work continues behind the scenes at Anfield, and new signings could be in the works. Here are the latest updates on rumors and confirmed deals from Liverpool:

Van Dijk remains tight-lipped about his future
Reds captain Virgil van Dijk firmly rejected a question regarding his future. The Dutch defender’s contract runs out this summer. After Liverpool’s 1-0 Champions League victory over Girona, he was asked about contract negotiations. He responded: “There is no word.”

When the interviewer pressed further, Van Dijk remained resolute, repeating: “no word” before adding, “no news to bring.”

Liverpool sign Manchester City prodigy
Liverpool have secured the signing of Lucas Clarke, a 16-year-old defender who was previously with Manchester City. Clarke has signed a contract with Liverpool and is expected to join their youth system.

He shared the news on social media, writing: “Delighted to have signed for @liverpoolfc can’t wait to get started #ynwa.”

This marks another instance of Liverpool poaching a promising young player from a rival club. In September, they signed Rio Ngumoha, a 16-year-old attacker, from Chelsea. Although Ngumoha had been offered a new contract by Chelsea, he chose to move to Anfield for a clearer path to first-team opportunities.

Klavan announces retirement
Former Liverpool defender Ragnar Klavan has announced his retirement from football at the age of 39. He posted a farewell message on social media: “Today, I’ll say goodbye to my first love. It’s time to put an end to the journey I began at the age of 15 and will conclude a 24-year career as a professional footballer. I want to thank you – dear football fans – for being with me throughout this time!”

He continued: “My journey as a footballer has been full of significant milestones and remarkable people. Reaching the European Championship playoffs with the Estonian national team and the entire iconic year of 2011. On the club level, of course, winning the Dutch league title and reaching the Champions League final with Liverpool. Undoubtedly, I’ve been very fortunate to work with many of the world’s best managers.”

“At 13, my dream was to reach the top-tier of English football and the Premier League. Yes – it took 17 years, but I achieved it (!), and as a cherry on top, of course, playing for Liverpool. Now I no longer can keep up with the youngsters on the field, but I can still DREAM BIG.”

December 12, 2024
Liverpool set for challenging European tie after securing knockout round spot

Liverpool secured a spot in the UEFA Youth League knockout stages, but now face a tough challenge in the round of 32 after the New Year.

Although Liverpool’s first team is still not fully assured of progression to the Champions League knockout rounds, their situation is nothing like the tension felt by the Academy on Tuesday afternoon. In their final UEFA Youth League match at Girona, with under 10 minutes remaining, the Liverpool under-19s were 2-1 down and heading for elimination after a red card for Ranel Young in the first half had reduced them to 10 men.

However, an impressive late equaliser from Trent Kone-Doherty earned a point and kept Liverpool’s hopes alive of finishing in the top 22 of the 36-team group and advancing to the last 32. They needed other results to go in their favor, and a few hours after the final whistle at the Estadi Municipal de Olot, Liverpool’s qualification was confirmed when both Paris Saint-Germain and Bayer Leverkusen failed to win.

“I’m delighted we have gone through,” said Barry Lewtas, the team’s manager. “I thought we started brilliantly against Girona. Playing away from home in Europe is never easy but I thought we passed the ball well, and I think when we took the lead it was deserved. The red card changes the game, which was disappointing from our point of view.”

Lewtas was pleased for Kone-Doherty, praising his performance, saying, “I was pleased for Trent and I thought we were a threat on both sides. He took his goal great and even though Girona had lots of crosses into our box in the second half, I thought overall with how we performed with 10 men we probably deserved that.”

The red card for Young, coming just six minutes after Jayden Danns had opened the scoring from the penalty spot, was a point of contention for Lewtas. “What’s disappointing for me was I don’t think they got a yellow card in the game,” he commented. “For ours to be a red card is tough but decisions are made, and for us it was trying to find a way of getting a result. They are a good team and they haven’t lost a game so to do what we did with 10 men was fantastic. We showed great character.”

Liverpool finished the first phase with eight points, having won at home against Bologna and Bayer Leverkusen, drawn at AC Milan, but lost to RB Leipzig and Real Madrid at Kirkby. With the knockout rounds pairing teams that finished in the top six with those in 17th-22nd, Liverpool, who finished 19th, now face a challenging tie when the competition resumes in February. Despite the tough road ahead, Lewtas believes the level of competition has been excellent.

“We’ve had six really good challenges and six really good games,” he noted. “The level of quality in this competition has been really good.

“We lost in Leipzig and that was probably fair, but it was frustrating we couldn’t get something out of the Real Madrid game. We conceded early and missed some good chances. Overall, our level of performances have been really good but the odd slip-up at the top level can really cost you.”

December 12, 2024
UEFA and Premier League Poised to Undermine Liverpool

As one of Europe’s top clubs, Liverpool often faces an exceptionally busy fixture schedule each season.

Competing in the Champions League, Premier League, EFL Cup, and FA Cup, fitting everything in can be a challenge without putting players’ well-being at risk.

Several players have already suffered serious injuries this season, including Harvey Elliott, Alisson Becker, Diogo Jota, and Ibrahima Konate, among others.

Assembling a starting XI with the right level of fitness to perform at their best is a difficult task, and Arne Slot is likely to be frustrated by the prospect of yet another game being added to his already full schedule, through no fault of his own.

The Merseyside Derby was postponed last weekend due to the high winds of Storm Darragh, which posed a safety threat to both players and spectators.

Initially, this seemed like a fortunate turn of events—Liverpool had several injured players and had just endured a grueling few weeks of tough matches against top teams.

However, as we now look at when the game at Goodison Park could be rescheduled, Liverpool may find themselves on the receiving end of an unfavorable diplomatic decision.

The Premier League Won’t Disrupt UEFA

Arne Slot’s team is currently excelling in both the Premier League and the Champions League, a notable feat, and the Dutch manager will aim to progress as far as possible in both competitions. However, Liverpool’s upcoming match against Everton, which is still without a scheduled date, could pose a significant challenge for the Reds going forward.

The rights for broadcasting this match were acquired by TNT Sports, the primary network for the Champions League in the UK, and they will likely be reluctant to prioritize one of their broadcasts over the other.

Additionally, the Premier League holds a certain level of respect for UEFA, meaning no domestic matches will be scheduled during European competitions, which typically occur on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. This creates a conflict.

Midweek Slots Become Limited

According to The Athletic, because Liverpool secured a spot in the top eight of the Champions League ‘league phase’, “February 11-12 and 18-19 (reserved for the Champions League knockout play-off round games) would represent the earliest chance to play.”

Since Liverpool bypasses the knockout play-off round and directly advances to the last 16, they won’t be involved in the Champions League during those weeks. However, this still creates a situation where Liverpool would have to play a domestic game while the Champions League is ongoing, which “is something that all parties try to avoid where possible.”

As The Athletic continues, “with midweek Premier League games on February 26-27 and Champions League last-16 matches taking up the first two midweeks in March, available midweek slots begin to disappear.”

Thus, rescheduling the Derby for February 11-12 or 18-19 is far more complicated than it may initially seem.

It is seeded

— Ste Hoare (@stehoare) December 10, 2024

Liverpool’s Limited Options

Although the club doesn’t have control over scheduling, the options available are so restricted that it’s worth outlining them.

Firstly, the Premier League could opt to make a decision that would favor Liverpool by allowing them to play during a Champions League round, despite potential tension with UEFA. This would be a compromise, especially since the team has worked hard to keep those midweek slots free for rest after qualifying directly for the Last 16. Still, Liverpool would likely accept this offer if presented.

Secondly, Liverpool might play during the EFL Cup semi-finals, scheduled for January 8 or February 5, but this would only be possible if the Reds fail to overcome Southampton in their quarter-final at St Mary’s, meaning this option depends on the result of their game on December 18.

Thirdly, Liverpool could play during the FA Cup on February 8, March 1, or March 29, though this is contingent on them being eliminated in the third round by Accrington Stanley on January 11. Again, this option hinges on an unlikely result, leaving Liverpool with a need for a more definite solution.

Finally, Liverpool could utilize the midweek slot before the final matchday of the season, though this comes with significant ramifications. It could lead to a high-stakes match with even more consequences if Liverpool is still in the title race toward the end of the season. Additionally, their fixture list will already include tough opponents like Tottenham, Chelsea, and Arsenal in the final five matches.

Whatever choice the Premier League makes will likely spark controversy. The Derby was justifiably postponed due to Storm Darragh, and this scheduling dilemma is entirely due to circumstances beyond anyone’s control. Nevertheless, the final decision could have serious consequences for Liverpool’s season.

December 12, 2024
Liverpool sign young defender from Man City, making an early move ahead of January transfer window

Liverpool have continued to strengthen their academy by signing 16-year-old defender Lucas Clarke from Manchester City. This move is part of their ongoing effort to secure the most talented young players in the country. Clarke, a left-sided centre-back, will join the club’s under-16s squad.

On Instagram, Clarke expressed his excitement, writing: “Delighted to have signed for @liverpoolfc can’t wait to get started #ynwa.”

This follows Liverpool’s acquisition of Rio Ngumoha from Chelsea in September. Ngumoha, a 16-year-old attacker, had caught the attention of Chelsea, who promoted him to their under-21s and offered him a new contract. However, he was enticed to Merseyside by a scholarship offer and the promise of a clearer path to the first team at Liverpool. Players like Jarell Quansah, Conor Bradley, and Trey Nyoni, who have successfully made the jump to the senior squad in recent years, offer hope to other young players at the club.

Arne Slot, who was appointed to replace Jurgen Klopp, was hired in part because of his track record of developing young talent at his former club Feyenoord. Slot shared his philosophy in his first Liverpool press conference: “I like to see good players and if they are old or young, that doesn’t matter that much.” He added, “It’s always nice for a club and team that young players come through the ranks. That always gives energy to a club. In the end, it’s all about the quality. If they continue doing well, there will be a fair chance that they will play.”

After Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League last month, Slot emphasized the significance of the academy, highlighting Conor Bradley’s impressive performance. He said, “It is nice for him, his family and us but also for the academy. Not only him… Caoimhin [Kelleher] and Curtis [Jones] were outstanding. To have three academy players doing so well is a big compliment for the academy.”

In addition to Ngumoha, Liverpool has also signed other young players from rival academies in recent years, such as Nyoni (Leicester), Amara Nallo (West Ham), and Kornel Misciur (Hull City). These moves follow the successes of Ben Doak, who joined from Celtic in 2022, Stefan Bajcetic from Celta Vigo, and Bobby Clark, who arrived from Newcastle in 2022 before being sold to Red Bull Salzburg for £10 million last summer.

James McConnell (Sunderland) and Calum Scanlon (Birmingham City) are among other recruits from rival academies. With its growing reputation, Liverpool’s academy looks set to continue developing top-tier talent, and Clarke will work under U16s coach Lewis Nightingale upon his arrival.

December 12, 2024
Martin Zubimendi is nearer to joining Liverpool than initially expected

Martin Zubimendi came close to joining Liverpool last summer before deciding to stay at Real Sociedad, a move that ultimately impacted Ryan Gravenberch’s arrival at Anfield.

Steve McManaman has revealed new details about Zubimendi’s near-transfer, suggesting that the Spanish international was actually much closer to moving to Liverpool than previously known before opting to remain at Sociedad.

The midfielder was set to become Arne Slot’s first signing, with Liverpool prepared to activate his $66.3 million release clause. However, a last-minute intervention from Sociedad convinced him to stay in San Sebastian.

Instead of pursuing other options, Liverpool turned to Ryan Gravenberch, who has impressed this season under Slot. Speaking to TNT Sports ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League clash with Girona, McManaman shared this surprising update about Zubimendi. He revealed that the 25-year-old was “practically signed,” even having his kit ready, before changing his mind and opting to stay with Sociedad. This decision left Liverpool with just Gravenberch and Wataru Endo as midfield options.

McManaman continued, “No, I think you’re right, (Liverpool didn’t expect Gravenberch’s form),” responding to Rio Ferdinand. “The fact that Martin Zubimendi was practically signed. Pictured, kit on, etc. etc., and then he decided to go back on that and stay with Sociedad. It meant that Ryan Gravenberch, along with (Wataru) Endo, were the only two in that position.”

He also highlighted Gravenberch’s potential, noting, “He’s 22 years of age. He got a bit lost at Bayern with injuries and not getting chosen, and the manager, whether the fact that Arne Slot, of course, knows the Dutch league, knows what he’s like, is a Dutchman himself, put faith in him, but he’s responded in kind.” McManaman added, “You only expect him to get better and better and better. Let’s hope he stays free of any injury and he will flourish.”

More news…..

Exclusive news: Arsenal and Liverpool tracking Brazilian winger for possible transfer

Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly keeping an eye on highly-rated Brazilian winger Gabriel Pec of LA Galaxy, according to sources who spoke with CaughtOffside.

Both clubs, along with several other Premier League teams, have had scouts monitoring Pec, who is emerging as an exciting young prospect.

The 23-year-old has caught attention with his performances in the MLS, leading to interest from Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle, Crystal Palace, Fulham, Wolves, Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, and Napoli.

While Pec is being considered as a potential future target for top clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool, it is still uncertain whether they will make a move for him in the near future.

Nevertheless, it is clear that the South American talent is one to watch, and if he continues to impress with his form in the US, top clubs are likely to show interest in signing him.

Could Gabriel Pec be a surprise solution for Arsenal and Liverpool?

Pec could eventually offer something different for Arsenal’s attack, especially with Mikel Arteta facing a shortage of options in that area.

The Gunners often rely heavily on Bukayo Saka to create opportunities up front, but Pec could provide an alternative or even an upgrade on inconsistent players like Gabriel Martinelli. Moreover, loan signing Raheem Sterling is unlikely to remain at the Emirates Stadium beyond this season.

Liverpool, too, might want to explore new attacking options as Mohamed Salah’s contract nears its end, and Diogo Jota has struggled with injuries.

Although the Reds would need a truly exceptional player to replace someone of Salah’s caliber, Pec has the potential to become a key player for a club of Liverpool’s stature in the future.

December 11, 2024
Brazilian media connects £30m Premier League player to potential summer transfer to Liverpool

Liverpool have been connected to various forwards recently, and a report from Brazil suggests that the Reds have shown strong interest in a Premier League player.

Arne Slot’s forward line is packed with talent, making it one of the best in the English Premier League, and perhaps in Europe as well.

However, Liverpool are keen on bolstering their attacking options and are considering a move for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush next summer. The Egyptian forward could be available for between €50m and €60m, although it remains unclear whether the Merseyside club will make an official approach.

There is also uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool, as his contract expires in 2025. If the 32-year-old leaves at the end of the season, Liverpool’s hunt for a new forward would intensify. One potential target already playing in the Premier League is Brighton’s Joao Pedro, with reports in Brazil linking the Reds to the Brazilian star.

Liverpool’s interest in Brighton forward Joao Pedro

As per UOL, Liverpool are set to prioritise signing Pedro next summer from Brighton and may begin negotiations with the Seagulls as soon as January.

The 23-year-old joined Brighton last summer for £30m from Watford. Since then, he has been a vital player for the Premier League club, featuring in 49 matches, scoring 26 goals, and contributing six assists.

Pedro has had an impressive start to this season as well, registering four goals and three assists in just nine Premier League appearances.

Though still developing, Pedro has significant potential and is a player who Slot could refine into an elite talent. His addition to the current Liverpool squad would be a smart move if one of their key players departs next summer.

More news…..

Liverpool have presented a contract offer to Virgil van Dijk – negotiations ongoing

According to a trusted source, Liverpool has extended a new contract offer to Virgil van Dijk as his current deal nears expiration at the end of the season.

As many are aware, Van Dijk, Mo Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all have contracts set to expire in the summer of 2025, giving them the freedom to move to other clubs.

However, a deal for Van Dijk seems to be progressing, with Liverpool reportedly making a formal contract offer, according to respected journalist David Ornstein of The Athletic.

Yet, not all the news is positive. Ornstein shared that the offer “fell short of his expectations and so far there has been no breakthrough on the value or length of an extension.”

He added, “The dialogue has taken place for some time and continues.”

While no deal has been reached yet, it’s clear from these developments – likely originating from the club – that there is confidence in making progress soon.

Virgil van Dijk’s recent comments on contracts

Discussions about the player’s future have mainly taken place behind closed doors.

In his most recent comments, made during an interview with Viaplay late last week, Van Dijk indicated that no agreement was near.

“Honestly, no,” the Dutch captain replied when asked if a deal had been completed.

“There is no change at all, there is no update at all, there is no news for the outside world. So I have nothing to share.

“[I understand the curiosity] but there is nothing at all, it is all untrue.”

These remarks followed Van Dijk briefly joining Salah in the mixed zone after Liverpool’s 3-2 victory over Southampton on November 24, where he smiled while saying, “I will play at the top level as long as possible, for sure, me and this man.”

From his words, it’s clear that Van Dijk is eager to stay.

December 11, 2024