Euro Paper Talk: Klopp’s heart set on Argentina star as focal point of Liverpool rebuild

Hernani, Rodrigo De Paul

Liverpool are showing strong interest in a Serie A star who can play a key role, while Manchester United ponder a €13million defender bid – both all in the latest Euro Paper Talk.

KLOPP EYES SERIE A STAR

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has his sights set on a move for Udinese midfielder Rodrigo de Paul in this summer’s transfer window, according to a report.

Klopp is increasingly likely to see Georginio Wijnaldum leave at the end of the season; the Dutchman is into the final few months of his deal and there has been no sign of him renewing so far.

As such, there will be a key opening in midfield, with Wijnaldum arguably Klopp’s most reliable midfielder. Several names, such as Florian Neuhaus and Marcel Sabitzer, have surfaced as potential targets.

According to Sport Mediaset (via Sport Witness), however, De Paul is the man who Klopp sees as filling the hole in his midfield.

The source reports that the Liverpool boss is keen to see De Paul flourish in the middle of the park and nail down a role in the side. Indeed, Klopp has an unwavering admiration for the player.

However, there is much competition in the race for the player. Across Europe, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain have shown interest.

But there is also more Premier League interest from Leeds, who were linked in last summer’s transfer window.

Udinese will not be against seeing De Paul leave, but want at least €40million (£34.4million) for his sale.

The Argentina international, who has 19 caps for his country, has scored five goals and assisted four others in 24 appearances this season.

AND THE REST FROM EURO PAPER TALK

Anel Ahmedhodzic Bosnia v Poland October 2020

Manchester United are considering making a €13million (£11.1million) bid for Malmo centre-back Anel Ahmedhodzic. (Jeunes Footeux)

United will also ramp up interest in Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez. (Todofichajes)

There is a 68 per cent probability that Jurgen Klopp will leave Liverpool in the summer of 2022 and take charge of Germany at the start of 2023 after the World Cup. However, there remains a 30 per cent probability that the German sees out his contract in Liverpool. (Bild)

Liverpool boss Klopp has made personal contact with Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Florian Neuhaus. (Todofichajes)

Bayern Munich starlet Jamal Musiala says that he has made the tough decision to play for Germany ahead of England. (The Athletic)

ARSENAL COULD BE OFFERED MADRID MAN

Vinicius Junior TEAMtalk

Arsenal could have the opportunity to sign Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior at the end of the season. (Don Balon)

Madrid are also open to selling Martin Odegaard to the Gunners, but for a premium price. (Don Balon)

In response, Los Blancos boss Zinedine Zidane has recommended the signing of Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile to club bosses. (Don Balon)

Sevilla are preparing for West Ham to reignite their interest in forward Youssef En-Nesyri this summer. (Estadio Deportivo)

JUVE UNLIKELY TO TARGET SPURS STAR

Heung-min Son, Jose_.Mourinho

Juventus are unlikely to go after Tottenham winger Son Heung-min given their financial struggles. (Il Bianconero)

Spurs may well return for Inter forward Nicolo Barella, but they will meet firm resistance from the Italian club’s bosses. (Calciomercato)

Instead, the north London club could attempt to sign Anderlecht winger Paul Mikairu. (Voetbal24)

Borussia Dortmund are searching for a new winger, aware that Manchester United remain keen on Jadon Sancho. What’s more, the club’s plans for new manager Marco Rose feature a new centre-back. (Bild)

JAMES RODRIGUEZ TEASES FANS

James Rodriguez Everton v Fulham

James Rodriguez has teased fans over his plans for life after football, which he will announce in the coming months. (Futbol Red)

West Brom winger Kamal Grosicki is trying to terminate his contract at The Hawthorns. Indeed, the Polish transfer window closes soon and he is keen to return to his home country. (Interia Sport)

Barcelona have already been offered the chance to sign Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero. (ESPN)

AC Milan will meet with Hakan Calhanoglu’s agent on Wednesday, confident of tying the midfielder down to a new deal. (Calciomercato)