Transfer Gossip: Brazilian midfielder dreams of Liverpool move and idolises Thiago; Arsenal sense danger as Real Madrid step up plans for big raid

Liverpool have been presented a chance to strengthen their midfield with the signing of a Flamengo star, Arsenal fears over a move to Real Madrid for one of their top stars are gathering pace, while Monday’s Transfer Gossip has an update on Diogo Dalot’s Man Utd future.

JOAO GOMES REVEALS LIVERPOOL TRANSFER WISH

Flamengo midfielder Joao Gomes has opened up on his desire to move to Liverpool after coming clean on his admiration for Thiago.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is desperate to bolster his midfield in 2023 with at least two new signings needed. His men appear leggy in the middle of the park and were beaten 2-1 by Leeds at Anfield on Saturday night. And those issues in the middle of the park were very much expected by the German boss, according to Graeme Souness.

Their No 1 target is Jude Bellingham, but that looks a tricky ask with Liverpool in danger of being gazumped in that transfer race.

Instead, they are likely to turn to a number of alternatives with Flamengo’s Copa Libertadores-winning midfielder Gomes has been linked.

Per Sport, Barcelona are Liverpool’s biggest rivals for the signing of the 21-year-old.

And while Liverpool links have previously been shut down by his club’s president, Gomes now admits his admiration for the Reds.

“I look at Thiago Alcantara,” the £32m-rated Gomes says, in opening the door to a potential move to Anfield.

He has also previously admitted his liking for the club, telling ESPN why Liverpool are his dream.

“Liverpool is a team I would play for,” Gomes admitted. “Playing in the Champions League is my biggest dream. My biggest dream in football.”

Joao Gomes highlights his best qualities

Now, according to Brazilian reporter Jorge Nicola, Flamengo are clearing the way for Gomes to leave. They are currently identifying potential replacements for the star, who has drawn comparisons with Man Utd man Casemiro.

The big concern for Liverpool on Saturday was the intensity at which Leeds played at, with Fabinho unable to cope with their domination.

However, Gomes is not short of confidence or mobility and many now feel he is ready to step up to the Brazil side.

Talking of his qualities and his ambitions, Gomes is not backwards at coming forwards.

“I think people have high expectations of those they know they can deliver. It doesn’t wear me out at all,” he said. “On the contrary, it motivates me to show that I deserve all this expectation.

“I feel very confident and ready for the new opportunities that are yet to come. I know that if I keep working hard and doing my best, this opportunity will come.

“Without a doubt, being called up and being able to play for Brazil is one of my biggest dreams. I hope this opportunity comes as soon as possible, because I’m going to grab it tooth and nail.”

FLORENTINO PEREZ REGRET FUELLING MOVE FOR GABRIEL JESUS

Real Madrid are ready to step up their pursuit of Gabriel Jesus in 2023 after more claims about a move to the Bernabeu.

The Brazilian star moved to Emirates Stadium over the summer and has been a big success under Mikel Arteta. Indeed, the 25-year-old has five goals and five assists from 12 Premier League appearances. His movement and ability to bring others into play has been a major factor for Arsenal, who currently sit two points clear at the top of the table.

And while they are only second favourites to win the title, 1o wins from 12 games gives them confidence.

However, reports over the weekend revealed Real Madrid are planning a move to prise Jesus from Arsenal next summer.

Now, per The Sun, that interest is being raised a notch with Jesus seen as the perfect heir to Karim Benzema.

The recently-crowned Ballon d’Or winner will be 35 in December and won’t go on forever. As such, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly targeting Jesus as the top candidate to succeed him.

Furthermore, president Florentino Perez also held talks with Jesus over the summer over a potential move. However, reports claim the issue was held up by a potential passport problem.

Now Perez reportedly regrets that failure to push the deal through and is determined to put that right in 2023.

Arsenal paid £45m for Jesus and his value is likely to have risen considerably.

DIOGO DALOT REFUSING TO DISCUSS MAN UTD FUTURE

Diogo Dalot insists he cannot guarantee his future will remain at Manchester United, but admits he is currently loving life with the Red Devils.

The Portuguese star has become one of the club’s most important players this season, with this article labeling him undroppable.

But the 23-year-old admits he is not yet ready to talk about a new deal with United. His current arrangement is due to expire in summer 2023, though United do hold a one-year option on that.

Dalot has since been linked with moves to Barcelona, Juventus, AC Milan and Roma.

And discussing his situation, the former Porto man told Sky Sports he’s keeping an open mind.

“I don’t think it’s the time to think about my contract situation,” he said.

“We’re in the process to improve our game as team.

“I love to play for Man United as I always try to show. I’m happy – this is the most important thing.”

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