Liverpool target Francisco Conceicao as Bradley Barcola alternative
Liverpool have made contact with the representatives of Juventus winger Francisco Conceicao as they seek a more affordable transfer alternative to Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola following the departure of Mohamed Salah.
The Anfield club are eager to bolster their attacking options after their Egyptian talisman unexpectedly left Merseyside a year before his contract was due to expire.
While the Reds identified Barcola as a priority signing, they have been deterred by the French champions demanding a staggering £140m fee.
This prohibitive valuation has forced the Premier League side to explore other avenues in the transfer market, including previous targets who are currently unavailable.
Search for Salah replacement widens
Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise remains off the market as the German club refuse to sanction a sale, while RB Leipzig prospect Yan Diomande appears destined for Real Madrid.
Having already secured Spanish forward Victor Munoz for £34.5m last month, Liverpool’s recruitment team have now pivoted towards Italy to complete their attacking rebuild.
Initial discussions have reportedly taken place regarding Conceicao, who could be available for approximately £42.6m despite Juventus’ initial reluctance to sell.
Conceicao’s rising stock in Turin
The 23-year-old Portuguese international only completed a £27.3m permanent transfer to the Serie A giants last summer following a successful loan spell from Porto.
Since arriving in Italy, the dynamic wide player has registered 11 goals across 82 appearances in all competitions.
Despite being contracted to the Turin outfit until 2030, an official bid in the region of €50m is expected to test their resolve.
Past interest and player stance
The Merseyside outfit previously monitored the forward last season, though he remained fiercely committed to his current employers when questioned about a potential Premier League switch.
I know people talk about a big club, but I play for a big club where I am happy.
At the moment I am only focused on these two games with the national team and then I will focus on the final stretch of the season to help my club as much as possible.
I am at a big club where the pressure to win is very high.
I just have to keep working and contribute with goals and assists.