Transfer News: Liverpool set to raid Santos FC to sign young talent Marcos Leonardo
According to Bolavip (As cited by Liverpool Echo), Liverpool have apparently set their sights on Santos FC striker Marcos Leonardo and would be planning to prepare an official bid to sign the 19-year-old.
With the additions of Darwin Nunez, Fabio Carvalho, and Calvin Ramsay thus far, the Reds have been very active this summer. In his first transfer window after succeeding Michael Edwards as sporting director, Julian Ward has also looked after a number of departures, notably Sadio Mane to Bayern Munich.
The team would need depth in certain positions if it is to compete at the highest level next season, and Jurgen Klopp could consider adding another attacker. Now, the Reds are being linked with 19-year-old South American striker Leonardo.
Brazilian attacker, Marcos Leonardo has featured in 102 games for Santos FC and is one of the most exciting young players to watch in the Brazilian Série A. Just like the Uruguayan international Nunez and Brazilian Roberto Firmino, Leonardo hails from South America.
The Santos academy graduate appears to be on Liverpool’s radar due to his eye for goals and solid performances. The Reds would be looking forward to investing in young players as seen by their recent signings, Fabio Carvalho and Calvin Ramsay.
Would Marcos Leonardo be a necessary signing for the Reds?
With the addition of Darwin Nunez this summer, Liverpool have already bolstered their attack but would face some issues. Given that Firmino is in the final year of his contract, they would need to prepare for a replacement as the Brazilian has been constantly linked to Juventus.
Despite the German manager’s statements that the 30-year-old remains a key player for him, it’s still unclear whether he’ll sign a contract extension this year.
Firmino has indicated that he would stay this summer but that doesn’t take away the fact that he would still have the option to leave the club as a free agent next summer.
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Therefore, the Liverpool board would profit from having a backup plan in place, which is where the 19-year-old prodigy would come into play. Leonardo would be a useful player and Klopp has demonstrated that he has the resources to help the Santos striker blossom into a world-beater at Anfield.