Liverpool takes a daring leap by pursuing Sandro Tonali with an eye-watering £77m offer as a midfield game-changer

Liverpool has made an encouraging start to the summer transfer window by securing the services of Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton. However, the club’s passionate fans are eagerly anticipating further acquisitions in the coming weeks, especially in the midfield department. After finishing fifth in the Premier League last season, Liverpool is acutely aware of the need to bolster their squad.

The pressure is mounting on Jorg Schmadtke, Liverpool’s newly appointed sporting director, who officially took up his role at Anfield on June 1. Expectations are high for Schmadtke to deliver significant reinforcements and ensure that the club avoids another underwhelming transfer window, especially with their major rivals actively strengthening their squads this summer.

One club that seems to be proactive in the transfer market is Newcastle, who narrowly edged out Liverpool for the coveted fourth and final Champions League spot last season. According to reports from the Chronicle, Newcastle has reached a personal agreement with Italian international Sandro Tonali as they work towards finalizing a deal with AC Milan.

Newcastle initially submitted a €50m (£43m) bid for Tonali, which was promptly turned down. However, they have since returned with an improved offer worth €70m (£60.2m). Following face-to-face negotiations on Thursday, the situation has progressed, and a deal between the clubs appears to be on the horizon. Tonali, who featured in 48 matches across all competitions for Milan last season, is now seemingly bound for St James’ Park.

The potential transfer has raised eyebrows regarding Liverpool’s lack of interest in securing the highly-rated Italian midfielder, especially given their own midfield’s need for reinforcements. A transfer fee of around £60m should comfortably fit within Liverpool’s budget. However, reports from Italy suggest that Liverpool may have alternative plans, targeting one of Tonali’s international teammates instead.

According to Italian journalist Marco Barzaghi, Liverpool is preparing a £77m bid for Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella. The 26-year-old enjoyed a stellar season, featuring in 52 matches across all competitions, scoring nine goals, and providing 10 assists. Barella played a vital role in Inter’s journey to the Champions League final and is an integral part of the Italian national team, boasting eight goals in 45 appearances.

While Gazzetta dello Sport also links Manchester United to Barella, Liverpool’s interest in the midfielder is undeniable. Manager Jurgen Klopp has previously praised Barella’s abilities, highlighting his aggression, technical prowess, and tireless work rate. Assistant manager Pep Lijnders shares Klopp’s admiration, including Barella in his book ‘Intensity’ as one of Europe’s finest midfielders.

However, Liverpool’s pursuit of midfield reinforcements extends beyond Barella. The club is reportedly considering several options, including Nice’s Khephren Thuram, Borussia Monchengladbach’s Manu Kone, and Celta Vigo’s Gabri Veiga, showcasing their commitment to fortifying their midfield ranks.

As the summer transfer window unfolds, Liverpool fans eagerly await further developments and hope that the club secures the necessary additions to reclaim their competitive edge in the Premier League.