Liverpool have reportedly entered the race to sign PSV Eindhoven midfielder Paul Wanner, with the Reds facing competition from two of Europe’s biggest clubs.
According to Sportowy, Liverpool have joined Real Madrid and Bayern Munich in showing an interest in the highly-rated 20-year-old.
Wanner is currently valued by PSV at around €45 million-€50 million, although the Dutch club could apparently consider negotiations if they receive a particularly attractive offer.
That is a serious price tag, but it also tells you how highly Wanner is regarded.
The German midfielder has already attracted plenty of attention during his development, and at just 20, there is clearly plenty of room for him to improve further.
For Liverpool, it would be another indication of the club looking towards the next generation of talent rather than simply signing established stars.
However, there is a significant complication.
Bayern Munich reportedly have an option to re-sign Wanner, which could have a major influence on his future.
That potentially puts Bayern in a very strong position if they decide they want to bring the midfielder back to Germany.
Liverpool would therefore have to convince both Wanner and PSV that Anfield is the right destination for the next stage of his career.
And with Real Madrid also reportedly interested, it certainly wouldn’t be a straightforward deal.
Still, I like the idea of Liverpool keeping tabs on players like Wanner.
The midfield is an area where Liverpool need to think beyond the present. With Iraola building his own team, bringing in young players with the potential to develop into top-level performers could be an important part of the club’s recruitment strategy.
Whether Liverpool would be prepared to pay €45m-€50m for Wanner is another question entirely.
But if the reports are accurate, Liverpool are at least in the conversation — and that’s one transfer story I’ll be keeping an eye on.
At 20, Wanner could potentially be an investment for the future rather than simply a signing for today.
And if Bayern and Real Madrid really are interested, Liverpool may need to move quickly if they decide he is the midfielder they want.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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