Amorim’s First Signing Revealed: Will This 22-Year-Old Be the Missing Piece in Reds’ Midfield Puzzle?
Liverpool’s managerial change has sparked excitement among fans as Ruben Amorim, set to take the reins at Anfield, is eyeing his first signing. Reports suggest that Amorim wants Alan Varela from Porto as an essential player for his new era.
Varela’s rise has not gone unnoticed by the top clubs of Europe. Now, Liverpool are in advanced talks to secure him at Anfield.
Despite Porto’s initial bargain deal last summer, Liverpool will face a significant €70 million release clause. However, negotiations are on the card as Amorim is keen on making Varela his first signing.
Varela was on Liverpool’s radar prior to his move to Porto last summer. The Reds pinned their focus on Endo, Szoboszlai, Gravenberch and Mac Allister last summer.
Meanwhile, Porto pushed through the signing of Varela for a bargain of €8m with €3m in add-ons from Boca Juniors.
At just 22 years old, Varela is already emerging as one of the top defensive-midfielders, not only in Portugal but also in European football. Liverpool already sat up and noticed his form even before their move for Amorim.
Amorim Wants Varela as His First Signing for the Reds
O Jogo is now claiming that their interest has enhanced in recent weeks as Liverpool scouted the 22-year-old in great detail.
The Portuguese outlet confirmed that the Reds sent an official to the Estadio do Dragao to watch Varela live in action against Vitoria Guimaraes SC on Sunday.
As per the report, Varela is tied to Porto by a deal to 2028 which includes a €70m (£59.9m) release clause. There may be some chance of negotiation on that.
But with Amorim’s preference for Varela as his first signing at Anfield, Porto are likely to try and get as close to that as possible.
Amorim has identified the defensive midfield position as a potential weakness in the squad. The Argentine Under-23 international’s addition can provide a long-term solution for the role of Fabinho’s successor.
While Endo has filled the role capably, at 31, Liverpool want a sustainable younger option. Varela’s impressive statistics this season indicate that he has the potential to seamlessly integrate into Liverpool’s midfield setup.
