Liverpool might secure the signing of Nicolo Barella in a £77 million deal in 2024, following their unsuccessful attempt to acquire him from Inter Milan this summer, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The report suggests that Liverpool expressed interest in the Italian international during the summer transfer window and started discussions.
However, Inter Milan rejected Liverpool’s efforts to secure the 26-year-old midfielder, deeming Barella as ‘untouchable.’
Chelsea and Newcastle United also failed in their attempts to persuade Inter to part ways with the midfielder during the previous transfer window. Nevertheless, circumstances might change in the upcoming year.
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According to the report, the Sere A side is expected to be more open to negotiations in the coming transfer windows and might consider selling the Italian star if clubs like Liverpool are willing to offer £77m for his services.
Whether Liverpool decides to meet the Serie A giants’ asking price remains uncertain, but Barella would be a valuable addition to Klopp’s squad.
Inter acquired Barella from Cagliari in 2019, and during his time in Milan, the midfielder has steadily progressed, establishing himself as one of Italy’s top players.
In the previous season, he played a crucial role in Simone Inzaghi’s strategies as Inter Milan clinched the Coppa Italia.
He also helped the team reach the Champions League final, where they were narrowly defeated 1-0 by Manchester City.
During the summer, Liverpool made significant changes to their midfield, parting ways with several players such as Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Naby Keita.
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In response, Klopp brought in signings like Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo, and Ryan Gravenberch to strengthen their midfield.
Liverpool also have Thiago Alcantara, Harvey Elliott, Curtis Jones, and Stefan Bajcetic in their midfield ranks. However, there are indications that Alcantara may depart Anfield when his contract expires next summer.
As a result, Klopp may see Barella as a potential replacement for Alcantara.
