Liverpool Put Boca Juniors’ Alan Varela on Their Radar
It seems that the Anfield’s recruitment team has turned their gaze to South America, where Liverpool FC is said to be tracking Argentine defensive midfielder, Alan Varela, from Boca Juniors.
The Rising Star of Boca Juniors
Alan Varela, a young 21-year-old talent, has established himself as an indispensable part of the Boca Juniors line-up. His agile gameplay and tactical acumen, displayed in his fourth professional season, has caught the attention of talent scouts across the globe, including Liverpool.
According to sources, the Reds reportedly had representatives watching Varela closely during Boca’s recent game against Tigre at La Bombonera. This was not a one-off incident as the Merseyside club was also alleged to have scouted Varela back in March. Their interest in Varela, however, is not exclusive, with football powerhouses like Barcelona and Newcastle also in the picture.
Varela’s Price Tag and Potential Impact
An insider from Boca claims that Varela’s contract contains a release clause, estimated at around $15 million (£11.7 million), a relatively modest fee in today’s inflated transfer market. However, back in March, Fraser Fletcher of Football Insider reported that the fee could be as high as £20m.
It’s noteworthy how Liverpool’s Transfer Committee are looking to invest wisely in younger talent for future gains. The potential capture of Varela, even followed by a loan back to Boca for further development, could prove a smart low-risk, high-reward strategy.
The Appeal of the South American Market
Liverpool fans have been eager for the club to explore the South American market, considering it an untapped reservoir of promising football talent. The successful acquisition of Alexis Mac Allister by Brighton from Argentinos Juniors for £6.9 million, and his subsequent loan to Boca, further validates this belief. Other examples include Brighton’s bargain buy of Moises Caicedo from Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle, and Manchester City’s £14.1 million purchase of Julian Alvarez.
Recent changes to work permit regulations have made it feasible for English clubs to delve deeper into this talent-rich pool. This could potentially usher in an influx of South American talent to Liverpool, given they fit the bill for a coveted squad position.
Echoes of Similarities
Interestingly, Mac Allister drew a parallel between Liverpool and Boca in a recent interview while on international duty. This similarity could make a transition smoother for players like Varela.
While the young Argentine’s signing may be a move with an eye on the future, Liverpool are also focusing on immediate reinforcements for their midfield. The hunt for this summer continues with players like Khephren Thuram, Manu Kone, Gabri Veiga, Ryan Gravenberch, and Romeo Lavia appearing on the Reds’ shortlist.
At the moment, all these players are away on international duty, meaning any new signings would be unlikely to be confirmed soon. However, one thing is clear, the eyes of Anfield’s decision-makers are keenly observing the movements in South America.
