Barcelona and Real Madrid are vying for Liverpool’s ace as two summer transfer priorities have been identified

Liverpool are understood to have sent their chief scouts to South America to assess a number of players ahead of the summer, with two priorities emerging before the transfer window opens. Meanwhile, Real Madrid and Barcelona are said to be considering a move for a Reds midfielder who will be on the way this summer.

Arne Slot will lose some big names, but there will be more additions to Liverpool’s roster than Jürgen Klopp left behind for the Dutchman. Just as important or even more significant than any transfer dealings that might happen will be tying down key men to new contracts, including Virgil van Dijk. Here’s a rundown of the latest Liverpool news.

Liverpool embark on a scouting trip to South America

Head scouts Barry Hunter has already visited Brazil to scout the country’s best young talent, 90Min claimed. As well as Europe’s top leagues, it is suggested that Liverpool will also assess the best players in South America.

As well as looking for players in Brazil, the report adds that Liverpool have two positional priorities this summer: centre-back and attack. Wholesale changes aren’t necessary given the current state of the team, but ideally further refinements would follow well before the start of the pre-season.

Real Madrid and Barcelona battle for Liverpool’s ace

Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcântara waved goodbye to Anfield on the same day as Jürgen Klopp (as well as Joel Matip) with the Spanish ace leaving after four years on Merseyside. Unfortunately, the main story of his time at Liverpool has been his injury problems.

However, Fichajes report that both Real Madrid and Barcelona are keen to land him on a free transfer and the 33-year-old would be willing to move back to Spain. The latter, according to AS, could even offer him a position in Hansi Flick’s coaching staff (part coach, part player) when the former Germany boss takes over from Xavi, who will leave Barcelona this summer .