Peter Crouch and Steven Gerrard heap praise on Liverpool target Nicolo Barella
Former Liverpool stars Peter Crouch and Steven Gerrard praised the Inter Milan midfielder and Reds target Nicolo Barella ahead of the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against AC Milan.
As per Italian journalist Gianluca di Marzio (h/t Sky Sports), Liverpool have been keeping a close eye on the Inter midfielder.
The 26-year-old is one of the best midfielders in Europe and one of Italy’s finest of the current generation. He is an electric presence in central midfield, is technically sound, can run all day for the team and is a tactically smart player.
Here’s what Gerrard said about him (h/t BT Sport, via Liverpool Echo):
“He did really well against the England midfield – your Jude Bellingham’s and your Declan Rice’s.
“He’s at a good age as well, coming into his prime and it’s a big night for him coming up against one of his team-mates in Sandro Tonali and it will be interesting to see who comes out on top as we know the midfield area is so important.”
In response or addition to those comments about the player, here’s what Crouch said:
“Yeah, he was crucial in the Benfica games. He’s got great feet, tenacious as well and is decent in the tackle. The first game he was the difference. There’s many, many admirers, Liverpool being one at the moment.”
Inter won the first leg of the semi-final and Barella played a key role in midfield. His work off the ball was very good, while the ability to carry the ball forward and make runs towards the opposition box was unsettling the local opponents.
Before the Champions League against Inter last season, Reds boss Jurgen Klopp talked about how good Barella is and what makes him a great player. The 26-year-old’s contract at San Siro runs until the summer of 2026 (Transfermarkt). He last signed a new deal in November 2021.
We all know Liverpool are looking to bolster their midfield departments with signings in the summer window. Alexis Mac Allister has been heavily linked, while Mason Mount is a long-term target now. Manuel Ugarte of Sporting Lisbon has been discussed as well.
More Liverpool News:
- Jurrien Timber talks about his future amidst interest from Liverpool and Manchester United
- Liverpool are in talks with Jorg Schmadtke for a temporary support role only
- Arthur Melo confirms he will leave Liverpool and wants to play before saying goodbye
Although Liverpool’s interest in Barella is there, will Inter want to sell one of their key assets even when he has three years remaining in his contract? Will the Italian want to leave his country, especially after a special season his club is having? The answer could be a resounding no, but it is on us to make sure that we put forth an offer neither he nor his club can refuse.
