Liverpool have reportedly joined the race to sign Barcelona midfielder Marc Bernal, as per TEAMtalk.
Following Curtis Jones’ departure this summer, Andoni Iraola currently has Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endo, Trey Nyoni and Dominik Szoboszlai as deeper midfield options.
However, the Hungarian has been out injured in recent days, and Endo has found himself on the periphery. The Japanese international hasn’t even been included in the Reds’ Champions League squad.
Moreover, Nyoni is still very young and needs time to develop. Gravenberch is suspended for Liverpool’s next Premier League encounter vs Brentford after picking up a red card against Manchester City last weekend.
Now, TEAMtalk state that Liverpool are considering strengthening the midfield department next summer and have identified Bernal as a serious option, as Andoni Iraola rates the youngster highly.
The Merseyside club have been keeping a close eye on his situation at Camp Nou and are prepared to make a move if he becomes available next year.
Liverpool aren’t the only club interested in Bernal as Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City and Aston Villa have also expressed their interest in recent times. Moreover, Atlético Madrid are in this race.
Bernal to Liverpool
However, the report state that Bernal is happy to continue his development at Barcelona under Hansi Flick and is close to extending his deal until 2031. Moreover, the new contract is expected to have a €500m[£420m] release clause.
Bernal is a 6ft 4in tall, technically gifted left-footed deep-lying playmaker. He is quick, strong, can play threading passes between the lines, and is efficient in defensive contributions.
Last season, Bernal made six goal contributions and helped his side win the La Liga title and Super Cup. He has mainly featured as a rotational option this term; still, he has shown glimpses of his qualities, providing two assists.
The Spaniard is a talented player and possesses high potential. Moreover, he has the necessary physical attributes to flourish in the Premier League.
Therefore, Bernal might be a shrewd acquisition for Liverpool should they purchase him. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Merseyside club eventually make a concrete approach to secure his services.
