Euro Paper Talk: Klopp performs U-turn as triple concern emerges about Liverpool target; Arsenal make fresh keeper bid
Liverpool perform a U-turn over one of their January transfer targets, while Arsenal come in with a bid for a Brazilian goalkeeper – both in the latest Euro Paper Talk.
REDS IN TRANSFER U-TURN
Liverpool have decided against signing Sergio Ramos this month due to three concerns that have emerged about the Real Madrid centre-back, according to a report.
Earlier speculation suggested that the Reds’ transfer focus has switched and that they are considering the 34-year-old as an option to add experience and depth to their injury-hit back line.
Indeed, the focus on Ramos reportedly came following reports focusing on a host of younger talent on the club’s radar. Sven Botman and Ozan Kabak are such other targets.
However, the latest report from Don Balon claims that manager Klopp and Liverpool have performed a U-turn.
The club’s hierarchy are in fact wary of adding a 34-year-old to their ranks, who would fail to provide longevity to the team.
What’s more, his lack of English would make it difficult for him to transition to life in Liverpool and the Premier League.
But the Reds also have memories of Ramos’ incident with Mohamed Salah in the 2018 Champions League final; Ramos challenged the Egyptian, who was left with a shoulder injury.
And that moment has reportedly ‘influenced’ Liverpool chiefs’ thinking.
In any case, Klopp has continually insisted that he is unlikely to bring in a new centre-back this month. He has stressed that a short-term quick-fix is not the answer to his problems, nor is splashing out large sums on a younger player.
Liverpool remain without long-term absentees Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez. Joel Matip, meanwhile, has a flaky injury record since moving to Anfield.
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AND THE REST FROM EURO PAPER TALK
Arsenal have made an offer for Barcelona goalkeeper Neto. Mikel Arteta wants him to bolster his options between the sticks. (Don Balon)
But Gunners defender Shkodran Mustafi wants to leave for Hertha Berlin, despite Arteta insisting that he is not for sale. (Todofichajes)
Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum has given Barcelona the green light to sign him. However, the Spanish giants’ economic situation makes a January move unlikely. (AS)
Manchester City are keen on Sassuolo’s Manuel Locatelli. He could be a replacement for defensive midfielder Fernandinho. (Calciomercato)
Sassuolo director Giovanni Carnevali, meanwhile, has said that he is pleased to see speculation about Locatelli’s future. (RAI Sport)
PEREIRA HAPPY AT LAZIO
Andreas Pereira’s representative says that the Manchester United loanee is “happy” at Lazio. But he would like more game time after featuring mostly as a substitute. (Het Belang van Limburg)
AC Milan have confidence over a loan deal for Chelsea centre-back Fikayo Tomori. (Sky Italy)
Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane is eyeing Olivier Giroud or Sergio Aguero if he cannot sign Erling Haaland. The Frenchman is wary of the hole that Luka Jovic’s potential departure would leave. (AS)
The agent of Everton winger Bernard has scheduled talks with the Toffees about his client’s future. Indeed, he has been linked with a move to Roma of late. (Calciomercato)
DOUBLE PREM INTEREST IN GALATASARAY MAN
Meanwhile, Everton and Aston Villa have registered interest in Galatasaray defender Christian Luyindama. (Sampiy)
Hertha Berlin have rejected Arsenal’s offer of buying loanee Matteo Guendouzi for €30million. (Sky Germany)
Barcelona hope that Lionel Messi will return from injury in time for Sunday’s Spanish Supercopa final. (Sport)
ASENSIO MAKES REAL MADRID ADMISSION
But Real Madrid were second best in their Supercopa defeat to Athletic Bilbao on Thursday, according to Marco Asensio. (Marca)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic says that he will soon discuss an extension to his contract at AC Milan. (Corrierre dello Sport)
Milan are also in talks to bring Mario Mandzukic back to Europe and a deal for the striker is close. (Don Balon)
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