Liverpool has ‘serious interest’ in signing £97 million Bundesliga star

Liverpool have a real interest in acquiring RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol, according to journalist Ben Jacobs, but will face stiff competition this summer

The Croatian is regarded as one of the top central defenders in the world, and he is expected to get numerous bids when the transfer market reopens at the end of the season.

Jacobs has disclosed to Givemesport that Liverpool have a ‘real interest’ in signing the 21-year-old, but they are not alone in their pursuit of the youngster.

The primary difficulty for all bidders, according to the writer, will be the price, given that Guardiola’s release clause does not become operative until the end of next season.

“Josko Gvardiol will be in high demand,” he said. Liverpool is one of the clubs with a genuine interest in him as an elite level centre-back. The price will be a challenge for all suitors.”

“There is a release clause that kicks in next year, but if anything happens this summer, discussion will be needed. Gvardiol is a possible target for Liverpool, who will be trying to strengthen their central defense. Of course, there is plenty of other interest.”

Potential to be world-class

According to The Athletic, Gvardiol is now covered by a £97 million release clause in his Leipzig contract, which does not become active until the summer of 2024.

As a result, Leipzig will be in a strong position to negotiate this summer, and they may seek a significantly greater money than the buy-out clause in order to part ways with the central defender.

It remains to be seen whether Liverpool will enter the bidding war. The Merseyside giants are reportedly keen in signing Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund this summer.

The club may have to pay more than £100 million to entice the teenager, which might have an immediate influence on the club’s pursuit of Gvardiol. The hierarchy may not pay more than the going rate for both.

If Liverpool were to join Gvardiol, he might adjust quickly. The Croatian has been playing for Leipzig, who play at a high tempo in the Bundesliga.

Gvardiol is a powerful distributor with high box concentration. He enjoys making clearances and would complement Virgil van Dijk at the heart of Liverpool’s defense.