Transfer News: Liverpool battle Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City for Villarreal’s Alex Baena
Liverpool are said to be interested in Villarreal’s left-winger Alex Baena, according to a report in the Spanish outlet Sport (Liverpool Echo).
The 21-year-old has started this season in fine form and is now attracting interest from the Premier League with Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea also said to be monitoring the left-winger.
He has started this season with flying colours, scoring six goals in 10 appearances for the Yellow Submarines in all competitions this season.
The report also adds that the winger has a release clause in his contract, which runs till 2025 (transfermarkt) and can be signed for a fee of £30.5 million. However, the Spanish side is hoping to tie their young star to a new deal.
Liverpool currently have two left-wingers in their squad with Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota. The latter is usually deployed as a striker. Adding another winger, who is just 21, would make sense, especially with the long-term picture in mind.
Roberto Firmino’s current contract expires next summer and his future remains uncertain. Should the Brazilian not extend his stay, Baena could become his potential replacement.
The 21-year-old can also play on the right wing and as an attacking midfielder whenever required. But the Spanish Under-21 international will not come easy and the Reds will have to fight off serious competition from their rivals.
More Liverpool News
- Liverpool target Ousmane Dembele has a £42m release clause in his contract
- Marcos Braz has shut down rumours about Liverpool target Joao Gomes
- Liverpool icon Steve McManaman casts doubt over three midfield targets
It will be wise for the Merseyside club to make a move in January otherwise with time, Baena’s stocks could rise. Salah may be fit and firing right now but we would need to plan for life after him one way or the other.
