Liverpool have been linked with a move for Porto midfielder Otavio as the search for Gini Wijnaldum’s successor steps up and recent comments by the player’s agent may give The Reds hope of getting a deal done.
What’s the story?
According to a report from Portuguese outlet A Bola last week (as reported by Sport Witness), the Reds were in advanced talks for the 26-year-old after he caught the eye of Jurgen Klopp.
The report claimed that the Merseyside outfit are acting on an “express request” from the German tactician after a string of impressive performances from the creative talent.
And a recent update provided by Otavio’s agent will provide further hope for Klopp that he can secure his man this summer.
“If it’s good for Porto and for Otavio,” he said to A Bola when he was asked if his client could be on the move this summer, indicating that a transfer is a possibility.
Should Liverpool sign Otavio?
Yes, definitely!
No way!
Klopp will be buzzing
The Brazilian’s exit clause increased from £34 million to £51.5m at the beginning of July, but there’s a growing belief Porto will allow him to depart for considerably less than that.
A significant discount could even be on the cards for the attacking midfielder, with Porto needing to sell players to improve their poor financial situation. The Dragons are reportedly willing to sell him for a fee they deem “fair”, meaning The Reds’ director of football Michael Edwards could secure another bargain.
Wijnaldum’s decision to join French giants Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer has left a significant gap in Liverpool’s engine room.
Several big names, such as Renato Sanches and Saul Niguez, have been strongly linked with a move to Anfield as a result, but Otavio now appears to be firmly in the running.
The South American has bagged 19 goals and provided a further 49 assists in 188 appearances for Porto, winning two league titles and a Portuguese Cup along the way.
With the ongoing pandemic continuing to affect clubs’ finances, Otavio could be deemed a realistic option for Liverpool as they aim to replace Wijnaldum’s passing ability in the middle of the park.
The Merseyside outfit may have to sell some fringe players before they can further bolster their ranks this summer, but news that Otavio could be available will surely leave Klopp buzzing given it’s reportedly him who is keen for a deal to be completed.
And, in other news…Imagine him & Thiago: Edwards could get LFC rocking again by signing £60m “conductor”