Despite spending good money in the summer transfer window, Liverpool could be pretty busy in January if reports are to be believed. La Nuova Sardegna claim that the Reds are tracking Cagliari midfielder Nicolo Barella, but face competition from Serie A sides, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan.
According to the same report, Cagliari President Tommaso Giulini will play hardball, and unless an offer in the region of €50 million is made, Barella could stay where he is.
Although Emre Can left Liverpool this past summer, Naby Keita and Fabinho improved the depth in midfield. However, it still looks like that area is the weakest when you compare the squad with Manchester City and Chelsea, Liverpool’s title rivals, so Jürgen Klopp could add more players in an attempt to bridge the gap.
Nicolo Barella – Fact file
Barella’s development has seen an incredible upward trajectory since he made his debut in 2015. A Cagliari youth product, Barella has represented Italy at every youth level and was handed his senior debut in 2018 which shows he is destined for greater things.
Despite being only 21, he has shown the composure and maturity that belies midfielders of his age. Even Andrea Pirlo showered praise on the young midfielder.
The modern-day game is played at an incredible speed, and Barella is a player who can mix caution with aggression. Last season, he scored six goals from midfield, showing that he can play a key role in the attacking half. His defensive actions are what earned him a senior cap, however.
What will Barella add to Liverpool?
Liverpool’s fast-paced all-action style suits Barella. Klopp’s side like to defend on the front foot as the idea is to make the opposition play the ball into certain areas and then press them to win the ball and limit the number of passes in the attacking half before the Coup de grâce.
Barella’s good technique and composure on the ball means he can be the ideal midfield candidate, but it’s his tenacity and presence of mind during the transitions that could help Liverpool the most. This Liverpool team live on recoveries to make the best use of the pressing and someone as agile as Barella could be a key player.
Klopp generally goes with a three-man midfield and Barella could be the ideal replacement for someone like James Milner who is already 32. The market is inflated these days, so €50 million seems like a good fee for someone who has done exceptionally well in the last three years.