Liverpool are keeping tabs on 22-year-old South American midfielder who could thrive alongside Alexis Mac Allister

Liverpool are scouting FC Porto defensive midfielder Alan Varela to bolster their midfield during the upcoming summer transfer window

Liverpool are actively scouting FC Porto defensive midfielder Alan Varela for a potential summer transfer to Anfield. The representatives from the Reds watched the Liga Portugal game between Porto and Vitoria de Guimaraes on April 7^th, Sunday.

Porto lost 1-2 to Vitoria in the game that involved a red card for Pepe in the 69^th minute. Varela has played a crucial role for the Portuguese side despite their struggle to keep up with the top two teams.

Standing at 1.77 metres, Varela is a combative midfielder with an emphasis on defensive duties right ahead of the defence. The 22-year-old takes his task seriously, eliminating the spaces between the midfield and the defence for opponents to exploit.

Arsenal's English midfielder #41 Declan Rice (R) fights for the ball with Porto's Argentinian midfielder #22 Alan Varela during the UEFA Champions League last 16 second leg football match between Arsenal and Porto FC at the Arsenal Stadium in north London, on March 12, 2024. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP) (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images) — Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice (R) fights for the ball with Porto midfielder Alan Varela during the UEFA Champions League last 16-second leg football match between Arsenal and Porto FC at the Arsenal Stadium in north London, on March 12, 2024. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP) (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

On possession, Varela has a fantastic first touch and the ability to dribble past opponents in tight spaces while progressing forward with the ball. The Argentina U23 uses good decision-making and game intelligence to distribute passes to the playmakers and the attacking teammates.

The 22-year-old makes himself available to his teammate regardless of the pressure the opposition is putting on their pressing. Varela has made 37 appearances in all competitions for Porto, contributing with two goals and three assists this season.

Portuguese outlet O Jogo reported that Liverpool sent their representatives to scout Varela during the game against Vitoria. The 22-year-old has also attracted interest from Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, Manchester United and Manchester City.

Liverpool have a stacked midfield after manager Jurgen Klopp revamped the squad during the last summer transfer window. During this season, the Reds have deployed Wataru Endo and Alexis Mac Allister in the defensive midfield position.

🇦🇷 Several European top clubs were in attendance at Emirates Stadium on Tuesday to keep close eye on Alan Varela.

Argentine midfielder, on the list of many clubs from Premier League and not only.

Release clause: around €70m. pic.twitter.com/ynuHIOLgPZ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 13, 2024

The duo has formed a formidable partnership in the midfield and contributes immensely in both attacking and defensive phases. Vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold has also featured as a number six this season, making a positive impact from the central position.

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Trent could make a permanent transition into the midfield next season depending on the decisions made by Klopp’s successor. Nevertheless, Varela is a fantastic midfielder who suits the profile that Liverpool desires but any potential transfer decision depends on the new manager and their tactical preferences.