Liverpool interest in Inter Milan’s Nicolo Barella ‘growing’
Liverpool fans have reason to be excited about the upcoming transfer window, with Nicolo Barella emerging as a prime target alongside Jude Bellingham for Jurgen Klopp’s side. The Italian midfielder has been on Liverpool’s radar for over a year, and it’s no secret that the backroom staff including Jurgen Klopp are big fans. Calciomercato report the Reds’ interest, via liverpool.com
Pep Lijnders, in particular, has been vocal in his praise of Barella, describing him as an exceptional player who would be a great addition to the team. Klopp himself has also spoken highly of the Italian, calling him ‘top class’.
However, the biggest question mark surrounding a potential transfer for Barella is how he fits into Liverpool’s other midfield transfer plans. With the pursuit of Jude Bellingham in full swing, it’s hard to imagine the club signing both players in the same summer as both would cost the Reds a lot of money.
Aside from cost considerations, the two players have a similar profile, and it’s unclear whether having them both as part of the same midfield trio would be the solution to Liverpool’s defensive frailties.
Could Barella move to the Reds?
Despite this, many Liverpool fans would be thrilled to see Barella donning the famous red shirt next season. The midfielder is known for his energy, tenacity, and technical ability, all qualities that would make him an excellent addition to Klopp’s side. He could cost the Reds upwards of £60m.
Barella is also a versatile player who can operate in a number of different midfield roles, which would give Klopp more tactical flexibility when setting up his team. Whether deployed as a box-to-box midfielder or in a more defensive role, Barella would bring a lot to Liverpool’s midfield. This season also, from 36 appearances across competitions, he has six goals and eight assists.
One area where Barella could make a significant impact is in his ability to win back possession. Liverpool’s high press is one of the team’s defining characteristics, and having a player like Barella who can both win the ball and start attacks would be a huge boost.
Another factor that could make Barella an attractive target for Liverpool is his age. At 26 years old, the Italian is in his prime as a player and could form a good partnership with the likes of Fabinho and Thiago Alcantara in midfield.
More Liverpool News:
- Real Madrid set price limit of £88m for the transfer of Liverpool target Jude Bellingham
- Liverpool still ‘hold interest’ in World Cup star Sofyan Amrabat
- Jurgen Klopp rips into Liverpool players after 4-1 Manchester City loss
Of course, Liverpool will face stiff competition for Barella’s signature, with several other top European clubs reportedly interested in the midfielder. But if Klopp and the backroom staff believe that Barella is the missing piece in their midfield puzzle, then the club could go all out to secure his services. His contract at I Nerazzurri lasts until 2026 (Transfermarkt).
