Liverpool explore deal to sign Atalanta midfielder Teun Koopmeiners
Liverpool have 'explored' a move for Atalanta midfielder Teun Koopmeiners but face competition from Juventus, according to Tutto Atalanta.
The 26-year-old has been one of the best central midfielders in the Italian top flight this season, making 28 Serie A appearances and scoring 12 goals from the defensive midfield position.
His performances in European League For Atalanta they have also attracted the attention of several important clubs in Europe and Tutto Atalanta reports that Juventus will compete with Liverpool for his signature.
Juve sporting director Christiano Giuntoli has been monitoring the 21-cap Dutch international closely, and the Italian giants are expected to step up their efforts to sign Koopmeiners if they secure a place in the tournament. Champions League.
Despite the Bianconeri's interest, the report adds that Liverpool have intensified their interest in the former AZ Alkmaar star and have already explored the possibility of bringing the midfielder to Anfield.
While the €36,000 per week Although the football star is in favor of a move to Turin, Liverpool still pose a “serious threat” by usurping the 36-time Italian champions to secure a move to the midfield jewel.
Koopmeiners is under contract at the Gewiss Stadium until 2027 and the report says Atalanta value the player at around €60m (£51m). However, they are likely to accept an offer worth close to €50m (£43m) if it is put on the table this summer.
Midfield depth
After a summer of failure transfer movements of Moisés Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, who joined Chelsea – The Reds finally signed Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo to provide defensive cover in the middle of the park.
While Gravenberch has been used in a more advanced role, Endo has been excellent in the midfield position, allowing Alexis MacAlister to advance and giving the Argentine more freedom.
However, Liverpool are still searching for another defensive midfielder and Koopmeiners possesses all the characteristics to thrive at Anfield.
His 12 goals in all competitions show that, as well as providing defensive solidity to his team, he is also an attacking threat and can play an advanced role if given the opportunity.
With Arne Slot set to take the reins at Liverpool next season, Koopmeiners' versatility could provide the Dutch manager with depth and quality in midfield.
However, with the player reportedly preferring a move to the Allianz Stadium, it remains to be seen whether Liverpool will be able to win the race for his signature this summer.
