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Reliable journo reveals how Liverpool turned to £60m star following failed Serie A transfer

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By Arindam Talukdar

Liverpool enjoying their successful star to their season but What would define success for Liverpool this season? Would it be knocking Manchester City off their Premier League throne? Or perhaps overcoming giants like Real Madrid to claim their seventh Champions League title, setting a new English record?

Nicolo Barella of Inter Milan(Image: sportinfoto/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

Liverpool signed Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2022 as Klopp moved to revamp his struggling midfield. He had a £60m release clause and stand-in sporting director Jorg Schmadtke paid it in full to bring the dynamic number ten to Anfield.

Ultimately though, his 2023/24 campaign left plenty to be desired but also showcased the ability that captured Klopp’s attention. As per FBref, Szoboszlai ranked among the top 17% of midfielders in the Premier League that year for passes attempted and progressive passes, the top 4% for shot-creating actions and the top 9% for progressive carries per 90.

We recall Liverpool’s interest in Barella

Liverpool were heavily linked with Nicolo Barella during the final years of Klopp’s tenure, especially in 2023 after a poor 2022/23 season left the midfield in dire need of reinforcements. Jordan Henderson and his midfield partners had lost their edge, and Barella seemed the ideal statement signing. According to Paul Joyce of The Times, Liverpool’s plans were hindered when Newcastle’s £52m signing of Sandro Tonali from AC Milan inflated Inter Milan’s valuation of Barella.

Reports from Italy that summer had also claimed that the Reds were eager to sign Barella, but it was actually Newcastle who made the first official move.

Barella is cementing his legendary status at Inter Milan, with 240 appearances across all competitions and playing a key role in securing two Serie A titles and two Coppa Italia trophies. The 26-year-old midfielder, who earns £200,000 per week, has become a pivotal figure at the San Siro, contributing significantly to the club’s recent success.

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Though Szoboszlai may not be at his best right now, his talent and ability to turn things around are undeniable. While his recent miss against Wolves drew attention from critics, fans understand his true value to the team. Despite this, he has much more to offer, playing an important part in a Liverpool squad that currently tops the Premier League and is aiming for major trophies.

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