Liverpool get transfer lifeline as Real Madrid turn attention to ‘next Lionel Messi’ | Football | Sport
Liverpool and boss Jurgen Klopp may have been given a boost in their pursuit of Brazilian starlet Endrick as a result of Real Madrid’s current transfer plans. The 16-year-old has burst onto the scene for Palmeiras and is considered one of the hottest prospects in the world, with several clubs including the Reds queuing up for his signature.
Liverpool have been linked with the teenager along with Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, though Carlo Ancelotti’s side were thought to have had an advantage following the recent success stories of Vinicius Jr and Rodrigo coming from the Brasileirao to La Liga. Klopp’s side are also thought to be towards the front of the queue for Endrick, and could have another boost as Real Madrid may have turned their attention to a different youngster.
Spanish outlet Marca has claimed that the club are interested in Velez’s 16-year-old Gianluca Prestianni, who has been dubbed as the next Lionel Messi by some in Argentina. The Argentine under-17 international became the youngest player in his club’s history in May by making his debut in May in the Copa Libertadores.
Their interest in the young forward could leave them open to being gazumped by Liverpool for Endrick, though there have also been reports that Chelsea and PSG lead the race for the teenager that has three goals in six league games this campaign.
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Endrick insisted that he is not listening to any rumours surrounding his future, but did namedrop three players that he looks up to. “I don’t listen to rumours,” Endrick told So Foot.
“I like to watch football from all European countries to learn about the game. I don’t have a favourite club because I’m only focused on playing in Brazil and then we’ll see what happens.
“I like Ronaldo the ‘Phenomenon’ and Cristiano Ronaldo. They are two players I’ve always loved for their strength and speed. I like the way they have or had of overcoming defences thanks to their speed and I identify with their characteristics. I also like Neymar and I like the speed at which they play in attack at PSG.”
