kazza » May 25th, '15, 19:15 wrote:Liverpool Open Talks With Benfica Winger Eduardo Salvio Over £40m Deal
Liverpool have stepped up their efforts to sign highly-rated Benfica winger Eduardo Salvio, according to reports in the Daily Express.
Brendan Rodgers is hoping for a busy summer after a disastrous end to the Premier League season, which culminated in a 6-1 defeat to Stoke City on the final day, and Salvio has emerged as a top target.
According to Portuguese paper O'Jogo the Benfica president and Salvio's agent have flown to the UK to tie up a deal.
Salvio has a £40million buyout clause although it is suggested the Reds will try and negotiate a better price with Benfica in financial trouble.
Salvio joined Benfica in 2012 and has made over 100 appearances for the Portuguese champions, and has also managed to represent Argentina five times.
The winger has enjoyed a stellar campaign, scoring 13 goals and providing 11 assists for Jorge Jesus' side. However, Liverpool may face stiff competition from Tottenham, who are also reportedly interested in the 24-year-old.
Salvio has pace and creativity and is seen as an ideal replacement for Raheem Sterling, with the England international ready to leave Anfield. Sterling is currently embroiled in a bitter contract dispute and, while it remains to be seen how it is resolved, Rodgers is already shopping for successors.
Although, according to CaughtOffside, PSG are a third club interested in Salvio, who are looking for replacements as Ezequiel Lavezzi nears the exit door.
Liverpool are looking at several players to bolster their squad and put themselves in a strong position to reclaim Champions League football next season, and Salvio would be an excellent start to what is expected to be a busy summer at Anfield.