Liverpool reportedly held a meeting before the summer transfer window shut over the possibility of signing talented midfielder Gavi from Barcelona.
The discussions are said to have been prompted by the fact that the 18-year-old’s current contract runs next summer, with Barca currently unable to extend it due to their financial problems.
The Reds were are known to be one of a number of clubs chasing Gavi. Indeed, they’ve been monitoring the player for some time.
Indeed, the teenager is regarded as one the most exciting young talents in world football.
Gavi actually broke the record for the youngest player ever to make his senior debut for the Spain national team last summer.
The dynamic midfielder has also started every match for Barca under Xavi so far this season.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp spent much of the latter part of the transfer window on the hunt for a new midfielder.
Indeed, his hand was forced after the Reds suffered injuries to Thiago and Naby Keita. Skipper Jordan Henderson has also joined the injury list since.
Arthur arrives to bolster Liverpool midfield
That prompted the Reds to complete a deadline-day loan swoop for Juventus star Arthur Melo.
The Brazilian was unavailable for the Merseyside draw at Everton after failing to receive international clearance. However, he could feature in the Champions League trip to Napoli on Wednesday evening.
But while talk of a move for Gavi is set to return in January, or even next summer when he could sign on a free, Klopp also has other midfield targets in mind.
Jude Bellingham has long been linked with a switch to Anfield. However, Borussia Dortmund never intended selling the England man over the summer, having already lost Erling Haaland to Manchester City.
But that deal will certainly be explored again, more than likely in the summer of 2023.
As for Gavi, the report from 90mins adds that while Barcelona are still trying to strike a new deal for the player, they could be open to offloading him for a substantial fee – if a suitable replacement can be brought in.
It now appears that links between Gavi and Liverpool will continue into the new year, and more than likely beyond.
Gavi signing could hinder Elliott progress
While there is no doubting Gavi’s serious talent for his age, there is likely to be a question mark over where he fits into Liverpool’s midfield.
He is a very similar type of player to Harvey Elliott, who has emerged as a regular starter this season.
Elliott has been trusted in Klopp’s engine room due to injury issues at Anfield. Indeed, the former Fulham man has, alongside Luis Diaz, been the shining light in a tough start to the season.
The 19-year-old has been used in playmaking midfield role and has certainly made a big impression.
Klopp’s men currently sit seventh in the table with nine points from their first six league games.
They will be expected to get back to winning ways when they face Wolves at home on Saturday. However, Liverpool do have a tough Champions League trip to Napoli on Wednesday to overcome first.