Liverpool are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing West Ham United captain Declan Rice, who has become one of the most sought-after midfielders in the Premier League.
The midfielders on the Reds’ radar
The Reds have made “discreet inquiries” about the 24-year-old, and it has been reported that he will cost “well over” £75m. Liverpool have also reportedly been in touch with Brighton’s Moises Caicedo’s club about a potential move.
But with both Rice and Caicedo valued so highly, it may prove challenging for Liverpool to acquire their services. Hence, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has reportedly installed Fulham’s Joao Palhinha as a “cheaper” option at around £40m.
Liverpool recently ended their pursuit of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham over the German club’s £100m asking price, believing such a big outlay on one player is not the right strategy to rectify the drop-off in form they have suffered this season.
Liverpool will be active in this summer’s transfer window, with the goal of acquiring at least two new midfielders. Jurgen Klopp stated that the club will improve with smart recruitment, but now is not the time to focus on the title plans.
Rice is considered to be one of the most coveted midfielders in the Premier League and has made just under 200 appearances in the division for his club. He is also capable of playing either the No.6 or No.8 midfield positions that Liverpool is seeking.
The former Chelsea academy player would be an attractive prospect for the Reds because he has Premier League experience, has played in European competition, and has 41 caps for England.
Moreover, with Jude Bellingham out of the picture, Rice could be the man they bring in.
In addition to Rice and Caicedo, the Reds will be looking at Inter’s Nicolo Barella, Wolves’ Matheus Nunes, and Bayern Munich’s Ryan Gravenberch, and Chelsea’s Mason Mount.
With Rice proven in the Premier League, Arsenal sees him as a safe option to improve their squad’s depth.
Arsenal is also keen on signing Declan Rice, and their fans support this decision, but the shortlisting of two of Arsenal’s transfer targets by Liverpool has annoyed the Gunners.
Declan Rice: the answer to Liverpool midfield?
The 23-year-old has excelled the trio in a lot of areas when compared to Rice’s Liverpool positional rivals this season, Thiago Alcantara, Fabinho, and Jordan Henderson, suggesting he might change Klopp’s team.
According to FBref, he has made more ball recoveries (262), completed more forward passes (187), won more tackles and interceptions (111), and generated three goals.
When compared to the player who may succeed him at Anfield, Fabinho has made 74 tackles and combined interceptions but has not assisted on any goals.
Given that, it is obvious that Rice would provide the midfield three with a higher level of skill and consistency.
Unquestionably, such an occasion would electrify the Anfield crowd the next season as Liverpool are in desperate need of central reinforcements.
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