Liverpool are still in negotiations with Lille midfielder Boubakary Soumare over a move to Merseyside, despite Barcelona planning a swoop for the 21-year-old, according to Spanish publication Sport.
Liverpool Still in Negotiations with Lille Midfielder Boubakary Soumare
Soumare Attracting Liverpool and Barcelona Interest
The Frenchman’s impressive performances in Ligue 1 have attracted interest from some of Europe’s top clubs. Liverpool are one of those and have reportedly been in negotiations with his representatives for some time. However, they have not yet agreed on a deal, and Barcelona could be planning a swoop for his signature.
Liverpool Still in Negotiations with the Frenchman as they Look for Youth
Liverpool are looking for more youth in their midfield, with the likes of Jordan Henderson, James Milner and Georginio Wijnaldum having few good years left in them. Soumare could provide the quality and longevity that they need. He is already good enough to play in one of the best leagues in the world but also can provide the Reds with a player of the future.
Barcelona Need a Midfielder
Barcelona will be eyeing many midfielders in preparation for this summer’s transfer window, and a Soumare swoop is an option.
Ivan Rakitic’s future is uncertain at the moment, with the Croatian having said that he ‘did not deserve some of the behaviour [towards him]’. With Rakitic unhappy with club treatment, he looked set for a January departure, however with the move not having materialized his future is still very much in the balance.
Recently, he has not been the first choice for the Catalan giants, with just ten starts in La Liga this season.
Arturo Vidal could also leave this summer. The Chilean has, like Rakitic, been a fringe player, starting just eight times in La Liga this campaign. He hinted at a possible move away two months ago, and his future in Spain is also uncertain.
Buying a young talent with the money of the two midfielders’ sales could be Barca’s best bet. The youngsters would not have the responsibility of a first-team player weighing down on them, however, they would get experience at the top level.
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