Liverpool face competition in pursuit of Orkun Kokcu as Benfica emerge as contenders
Liverpool FC’s pursuit of Feyenoord midfielder Orkun Kokcu has hit a roadblock as Benfica enters the race for the talented Turkish international. Kokcu played a pivotal role in Feyenoord’s Eredivisie title-winning campaign last season, catching the attention of several top clubs, including Liverpool.
An update from the Netherlands via ECHO states that Benfica has emerged as the front-runner in the race to secure the 22-year-old’s services. Earlier this year, former Liverpool player Dirk Kuyt expressed his desire to see the Reds make a move for Orkun Kokcu.
Feyenoord, aware of the interest from the Premier League, is holding out for a fee close to £34.4m for their midfielder. The club is “well aware of Kokcu’s value” and the competition for his signature, which has influenced their stance on the transfer fee.
Liverpool, known for their meticulous approach to recruitment, will surely need to assess their options and make a strategic decision regarding their pursuit of Kokcu.
Kokcu to the Reds?
While the Reds have a track record of identifying talented young players and nurturing their development, the financial aspect of the deal could play a significant role in determining their course of action.
Kokcu’s potential arrival at Anfield would undoubtedly bolster Liverpool’s midfield options and provide additional creativity and technical quality to the squad. However, the emergence of Benfica as strong contenders for his signature adds a new dimension to the transfer saga.
While the Reds already have Alexis Mac Allister on board, having the additional services of Kokcu, who plays deeper than the Argentine could come in handy more often than not. In 46 appearances across all competitions for Feyenoord this season, the Turk has 12 goals and five assists.
Having said that, it is still pretty early doors in the transfer season, and if the Reds try hard enough, there would surely be better options available in the market including the likes of Manu Kone and Khephren Thuram, who’ve been on the Reds’ radar for longer than Kokcu.
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While there is absolutely nobody doubting the quality and class of Kokcu, the Reds could just display a little bit of patience as they hope to bring on board the top talents from all around Europe who could fit the Reds better than Orkun Kokcu.
