Nuno Mendes is close to renewing his contract with Sporting, as the Lisbon club look to protect the 18-year-old’s value ahead of a transfer.
Record and O Jogo both report Liverpool have an interest in the player, and the latter has the most on Jurgen Klopp’s side. They state the Reds made an ‘offer’ worth around €22m for the fullback, which was rejected by Sporting who would have accepted €45m.
Once the renewal is confirmed, Mendes’ buyout clause will increase to €70m, putting Sporting in a strong position when it comes to negotiating a sale, potentially as early as the next summer transfer window.
Liverpool interest is presented as serious, despite the club not really needing a left-back right now. Mendes is so highly rated that interest from the world’s biggest clubs is taken for granted, and there’s also the possibility of him evolving into a central defender.
Sporting are aware of interest, which extends to clubs including Real Madrid and both the Manchester sides. It would appear, though, that Liverpool have made the most effort.