Liverpool’s search for midfield reinforcements this summer has resulted in further developments involving Porto’s Alan Varela.

After signing Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Alexis MacAllister ahead of the 2023/24 season, it appears like the Reds, led by new head coach Arne Slot, are seeking for a more defensive-minded midfielder to battle with Wataru Endo.7;

Already this summer, reports of a £40 million bid for Atalanta’s Ederson were denied, but the Reds will need to spend an additional £20 million if they want to bring the aforementioned Varela to Anfield during the transfer season, as the midfielder’s Porto contract reportedly includes a £60 million release clause.

According to Football Insider, Liverpool and Porto have had internal discussions about a potential deal. After signing Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez in recent years, the Reds are believed to be anxious to return to the Portuguese market, aided by Michael Edwards’ data-driven scouting technique.

Varela played 43 matches for Porto in all competitions during the 2023/24 season, including eight in the Champions League, where they were defeated on penalties by Arsenal in the round of 16. Nonetheless, the midfielder did well, winning 0.8 tackles and 1.3 clearances per 90 minutes.

To be linked with a move to Liverpool after only one season in a major European league demonstrates the 22-year-old’s improvement over the previous year, while Porto are expected to make a substantial profit after signing Varela from Boca Juniors for £6.8 million last summer.

Varela was linked to former Liverpool player Javier Mascherano throughout the season, with comments from Porto manager Sergio Conceicao drawing some parallels.

“I wanted a player who would occupy the same space as [Matheus] Uribe,” Conceicao informed O Jogo in February. When a central defender steps out to cover, I see an opening to join the defensive line. He [Varela] did not advance much, but that was for tactical reasons, as I believe he arrives well in front, defines well, has a good long pass, and a decent shooting.

“There’s been an intriguing progression. To appear more regularly. That’s what we ask of our midfielders.”