LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JUNE 24: Fabinho of Liverpool celebrates with his team after scoring his sides third goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Crystal Palace at Anfield on June 24, 2020 in Liverpool, England. (Phil Noble/Pool via Getty Images)
According to Spanish media, Liverpool has indicated that they are willing to pay the €50 million (£42.2m) release clause for Barcelona midfielder Gavi.
In the summer transfer window, Jurgen Klopp has been looking to strengthen his midfield options, and Monaco’s Aurelien Tchouameni has been one of his top targets.
The Champions League finalists had agreed on a deal with the 22-year-old, but it is understood that the midfielder prefers to join Real Madrid, with whom he has also agreed on personal terms.
Liverpool is looking into alternatives to Tchouameni and has identified Gavi as a summer target, according to Sport.
According to the report, Liverpool sees Gavi as a “great market opportunity” and is willing to pay his €50 million (£42.2 million) release clause.
Klopp is said to have been impressed by Gavi’s performances for Barcelona, and Liverpool’s scouting department has been keeping tabs on the 17-year-rapid old’s rise in Spain.
Barcelona has extended Gavi’s contract, which is set to expire next year.
However, Barca president Joan Laporta admitted earlier this week that he was concerned that Gavi had not signed the new agreement.
‘For a long time, his representative has had the renewal offer on the table. We have no word on whether he has accepted,’ Laporta told L’Esportiu.
When asked if the club was concerned about Gavi’s refusal to accept the offer, Laporta responded, ‘Yes, because we don’t understand.’
‘He’s a player we all like; he’s 17 years old, has a great future at Barcelona, and we don’t understand why his representative is playing and comparing.’
‘I believe the club’s proposal is more than acceptable within our salary levels.’
