Liverpool showed keen interest in FC Porto’s Alan Varela in the summer window.
Back in June, AS reported the Reds had intensified contacts over signing the midfielder.
On transfer deadline day, we covered claims from Argentina which stated Liverpool made an attempt to snatch him away from Porto. It was also reported the Dragons declared him non-transferable.
Fast forward to October and journalist César Luis Merlo mentions Liverpool’s failed efforts to sign the 23-year-old. He took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to discuss the player’s contract situation.
The Portuguese club signed Varela from Boca Juniors in August 2023. He was a regular in his debut season at Porto, making 44 appearances in all competitions. His performances had convinced Liverpool to sign him.
According to Melro, the Primeira Liga side refused to let the Argentine join Arne Slot’s side. His deal lasts until 2028, and Porto want to offer him an improved contract, as some kind of compensation and recognition that he could have moved elsewhere.
The journalist states Porto are in ‘advanced negotiations’ with the South American’s camp over raising his salary. He adds the new contract will only see his wages improve and the duration will still be until 2028.
There’s no mention whether it’ll include a high release clause or if Liverpool will return for Varela in 2025.
