Liverpool ‘won’t let go’ of player – Club ‘aiming for’ €80m to sell 23-year-old to Reds

Thursday’s edition of Record has Orkun Kökçü splashed across the front page with the claim Liverpool are considering a swoop for the Benfica player.

The next two pages of the Portuguese newspaper also cover a potential move to Anfield, and a chance to reunite with Arne Slot, who he previously worked with at Feyenoord.

Record say Liverpool ‘won’t let go’ of Kökçü, and last sent scouts to watch him during Benfica’s 4-0 Champions League victory against Atletico Madrid.

Slot is said to be leading Liverpool’s interest, due to having had Kökçü at Feyenoord and being impressed with what he showed then and has since.

Benfica paid Feyenoord €25m plus a potential further €5m in bonus payments, and they have the 23-year-old secured on a contract lasting until June 2028.

That contract has a colossal €150m release clause, and Record report the Lisbon club would be ‘aiming for’ €80m to part ways with Kökçü.

The midfielder is versatile in his position, but largely plays in an attacking role. He’s scored four goals and contributed three assists in nine games so far this season.

Perhaps this is an attempt from Benfica to revalue their player after he had a mixed first season with them.

Time will tell whether Liverpool interest is serious, or if they’re just watching a number of players at the Portuguese club.