Liverpool back in for Alan Varela

Liverpool are once again being linked with Alan Varela, and the Porto midfielder looks like exactly the type of player who could make sense if the club decide to strengthen the base of their midfield this summer.

The Argentine has been admired by Premier League clubs for a while, but the Liverpool angle is easy to understand. He is 24, already experienced in a demanding European environment, and plays with the calmness and aggression that top teams want from a modern holding midfielder. Varela is not a flashy No.10 or a goalscoring box-to-box player. His game is built around control, positioning, ball recovery and giving the team structure.

That profile could appeal to Liverpool because they have spent the last few windows reshaping their midfield, but there is still room for a more natural defensive specialist. Varela can sit in front of the back four, break up attacks and help move possession quickly into more creative players. He is press-resistant, tidy in tight spaces and used to playing for a club where dominating the ball is expected.

His season stats show the kind of player he is. In the Portuguese league this campaign, Varela has made around 30 appearances, scoring two goals. He is not judged mainly on attacking output, though. His value comes from his defensive work, passing security and ability to keep Porto balanced. He regularly ranks well for tackles, interceptions and recoveries, while also offering simple, progressive passing from deep areas.

The big issue is price. Porto are under no pressure to sell cheaply, especially after tying Varela down to a contract until 2030. His market value is believed to be around €30m to €35m, but that does not mean Porto would accept anything close to that. Reports have suggested his release clause could be as high as €75m or even €90m, and Porto have a strong history of demanding major fees for their best assets.

Liverpool are not alone in the race. Manchester United and Manchester City have also been credited with interest, while Galatasaray were previously linked with a sizeable offer. That competition could make the deal difficult, particularly if Porto decide to wait for a bidding war.