Liverpool are eyeing a move for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino as a potential alternative to Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham.
That’s according to Fichajes, who say the Reds are planning to ‘reactivate’ their interest in the Spanish midfielder.
They report that Liverpool are continuing to work on planning for their squad next season, with Jurgen Klopp clear that they need additions to compete with the big squads at Chelsea and Manchester City.
One of the positions they need to reinforce is the midfield, having failed to sign a replacement for Georginio Wijnaldum in the summer and suffered injuries in that department this season.
It’s felt they need ‘fresh blood’ in that area of the team, and one of the names on the table is Merino, who was a target in the last transfer window but as a Plan B to Bellingham, who ‘all guns were pointed at’.
He, though, remains an ‘impossible signing’ given his price tag and Dortmund’s reluctance to sell, so an alternative is needed.
That is where Merino comes in, as it is felt he is a profile that ‘fits perfectly’ with Klopp’s idea of the game due to his ability to cover a lot of ground, versatility and ‘dominant physique’.
There’s also the added bonus of him having Premier League experience, although his spell at Newcastle is not one anyone remembers fondly.
Liverpool, though, are keen and would be willing to make a ‘significant investment’ to get him in the summer transfer window.
