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Liverpool had a quiet summer transfer window compared to most big clubs, yet that has done little to affect the Reds’ form.
Arne Slot has led the Anfield side to top spot in the Premier League standings, with Liverpool also looking in good shape to claim a top-eight UEFA Champions League finish after winning their first three games in this season’s tournament.
Although Mohamed Salah issued a cryptic message on his Liverpool future, the vibes around Merseyside are good this season, with the Premier League giants having a real shot at winning some major silverware under Slot.
And this January could see the Reds land quite an exciting signing from FC Barcelona.
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According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool are ‘closely monitoring’ Marc Casado, who scouts believe could start immediately for Slot if the Reds were to win the race to sign the Barcelona youngster.
Casado is one of many academy graduates to have thrived at Barcelona this season under Hansi Flick, with the 21-year-old starting 11 games in all competitions in the defensive midfield role with the La Masia talent looking like a natural at the highest level.
With a release clause worth €100m (£84m) according to Mundo Deportivo, Liverpool might have to break the bank if they’re to secure Casado’s services, with Manchester United and Newcastle United also interested in the midfielder.
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However, with Barcelona’s financial situation still in quite a mess, a tempting offer from Liverpool or another Premier League side could result in the Catalan side letting Casado leave for the right amount.
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This season has seen a number of youngsters seemingly spawn out of thin air at Barcelona and become potential superstars in the making, with Casado showing that he could be a real player having thrived under Flick.
And for Liverpool, the 21-year-old could be an answer to Liverpool’s midfield issues, with the Reds lacking real quality depth beyond the usual four names who Slot has turned to this season in the position.
And although Barcelona might demand a hefty fee for Casada, the youngster could be worth the financial risk for Liverpool, with the midfielder looking exceptional in his first full year as a professional in La Liga.
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