Liverpool use third party to tilt chances of key Anfield signing in Klopp’s favour

Serge Gnabry, Thiago Alcantara

Liverpool have enlisted the help of an intermediary to make contact with Bayern Munich about Thiago Alcantara, according to reports.

Thiago has been repeatedly linked with a move to Anfield in recent months, with his contract now in its final year.

The Spaniard, who recently won the Champions League with Bayern, would bring extra creativity to Liverpool’s midfield.

Manchester United are also reportedly keen on Thiago, in what appears to be a two-way transfer tug of war with their Premier League rivals. However, SportBild now reports that neither club has made official contact with Bayern yet.

Former Bayern president Uli Hoeness recently claimed that Liverpool and United were using “blackmail” in their transfer pursuit by agreeing a deal with the player before approaching the club.

And SportBild (via Sport Witness) provide insight into the tactics Liverpool are using in their efforts to sign Thiago.

According to the report, Liverpool have used an intermediary to contact Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic. There has been no contact from United – only with the player’s entourage.

Liverpool are crucially trying to reduce the asking price for Thiago, which is currently €30m. Given his contract will expire next summer, that seems too steep.

The player has suggested he is happy to stay at Bayern, but previous reports from Bild have dubbed those claims as lies.

 

Liverpool consider promoting Grujic

There may be no need for Thiago after all at Anfield if one returning midfielder gets a chance.

Marko Grujic has spent the majority of his Liverpool career out on loan, but his agent recently revealed that he could play a part this season.

Grujic was on loan at Hertha Berlin for the past two seasons, where he showed signs of development. And he now could have earned a chance to impress at Anfield.

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