Liverpool seek to trump Barcelona to Gustavo Maia

According to CaightOffside (h/t Liverpool Echo), Liverpool will challenge Barcelona to the signing of Sao Paulo youngster Gustavo Maia.

The 19-year-old is actually yet to make a first-team appearance for the Brazilian side. However, that has not stopped numerous sides across the world from showing an interest in him.

Catalan giants Barcelona had agreed to pay an initial fee of around £900,000. This will be followed by a further £3.2m

. The follow-up amount has to be paid by July 30 for the transfer to take place.

If the Catalans do not exercise the option, Liverpool are primed to jump in and make an offer for the youngster.

With an established front three already in place, Liverpool will do well to secure Maia as a long-term prospect. It makes no sense for the club to splash big amounts on a player who is still some years away from challenging our formidable triumvirate.

At just 19, the Brazilian has time on his side. He can hone his skills before eventually making the move up to the first-team.

The Samba capital of England

Merseyside has become a home of sorts for Brazilian talents over the past few years. Roberto Firmino, Fabinho, and Alisson Becker

are much loved key members of a dominant Liverpool side competition for English and European dominance.

The Blue half of the City too have their own Samba stars. Richarlison and Bernard too have made a name for themselves at Goodison Park.

Under Jurgen Klopp, the Reds have not been afraid to play youth stars if they are deemed to be good enough. Maia will not be short of chances to impress if he does move to Anfield.

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It remains to be seen if Barcelona will exercise their option to sign the player. If they fail, the Brazilian will find a home waiting for him on Merseyside.