Liverpool in a three-horse race to land 18-year-old Real Betis sensation

Newcastle United, Liverpool and Chelsea are all looking to sign 18-year-old Assane Diao

Liverpool are reportedly one of three Premier League clubs including Newcastle United and Chelsea weighing up a move for Real Betis’ teenage winger Assane Diao.

The 18-year-old has taken La Liga by storm this season, attracting interest from the Reds, Chelsea and Newcastle per reports in Mucho Deporte via Sport Witness (h/t Liverpool Echo). The right winger has netted two goals in six appearances for Betis so far this campaign and looks the real deal.

His blistering emergence has helped fire Betis to sixth in the table as they push for European qualification. The rapid rise of the Spanish youth international has placed him firmly on Liverpool’s radar.

Betis will attempt to increase Diao’s reasonable €30m release clause to €40m amid the growing Premier League interest. But the lure of a high-profile switch to England may prove too tempting for the teenage prodigy.

Liverpool will be eager to add a young player to their attacking options with elite talents like Diao as a possible replacement for Mohamed Salah whose chances of joining the oil-rich Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad grow larger day by day.

At just 18, he would represent an exciting long-term addition if Jurgen Klopp firms up interest. Chelsea and Newcastle are also monitoring Diao’s availability as they look to revamp their own squads. Whoever wins the race could land themselves a solid signing for the long-term.

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Liverpool know they face stiff competition for the Betis starlet’s signature if they pursue a deal. But bringing Diao’s fearless attacking talents to Anfield would be considered a huge coup. Klopp may have to act swiftly to fend off their Premier League rivals in the race for the teenage sensation.