According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes has long admired Bologna and Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori.
Hughes is part of a new-look senior squad at the Merseyside club this summer, following the resignation of long-time manager Jurgen Klopp. Fenway Sports Group (FSG) appointed Michael Edwards as their new football CEO, while Hughes was later named as Liverpool’s sporting director.
Former Feyenoord manager Arne Slot has since been named the club’s new head coach, succeeding Klopp in the Anfield dugout. Now, all new signings face a busy summer preparing the squad for another successful season in the Premier League and a return to Champions League action.
Hughes has ‘Scouted’ Calafiori
The defender has just represented Italy at Euro 2024
Liverpool appear to be on the market for a central defender this summer, with earlier reports linking them to Lille’s Leny Yoro. They have recently emerged as a potential destination for Bologna’s Calafiori. The 22-year-old defender is a product of Roma’s academy and previously played for Genoa and Basel before joining Bologna for a modest price last summer. He had a fantastic season with his club and has now piqued the interest of big teams once more with his performances for Italy at Euro 2024, with Italian rumours indicating he may cost €50 million (£42 million).
According to Romano, Liverpool’s Hughes has long admired the player, whom he has regarded as “one of the best” defenders in his daily briefing, dating back to the sporting director’s time at Premier League opponents Bournemouth. However, communication between both teams has yet to be formed, and it remains to be seen whether the Reds will proceed with a deal.
Liverpool Handed Boost in Bento Race
He was previously a target for Inter Milan
Liverpool has received a huge boost in the race for Brazilian custodian Bento, according to sources this week. With Caoimhin Kelleher and Adrian’s futures uncertain at Anfield, the Reds will almost surely be looking for a new shot-stopper this summer.
According to Globo Esporte, Liverpool is one of several European clubs interested in signing Bento from his local club, Athletico Paranaense. The publication also mentions Portuguese giants Benfica and Sporting as possible destinations for the 25-year-old.
However, Inter Milan’s apparent withdrawal from the fight for Bento, as their focus has reportedly switched to Genoa’s Josep Martinez, will be a boost. Bento, on the other hand, is under contract until 2026, and Athletico Paranaense has already turned down a €15 million bid from Inter for his services. According to reports, the Brazilian club has no desire to move Bento, and if their demands are not satisfied, he will remain with them after the Copa America.
Bento is a product of Athletico’s development system who was promoted to the first team in 2020. After starting off as their fifth-choice custodian, he was promoted to number one in 2022 and has now made over 160 appearances for the team.