Liverpool ‘Open Formal Talks’ With Spaniards Over €9m Deal

As we approach the opening of the summer window clubs will be intensifying their efforts in the transfer market so we’ll bring you all the latest news and gossip. Today, Liverpool are linked with Toby Alderweireld.

Liverpool have opened talks with Atletico Madrid over a potential €9m deal for out-of-favour defender Toby Alderweireld, according to reports.

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers is expected to strengthen his defence this summer after his leaky back-line arguably cost the Merseysiders the Premier League title last season.

While a left-back to compete with Jose Enrique and Jon Flanagan is thought to be high on the agenda, a new centre-back is also a priority and it appears the Northern Irishman has cast his eye to Spain in search of targets.

The Metro are reporting today that Liverpool have identified Atletico Madrid’s Toby Alderweireld as a potential signing and have now opened formal talks over a possible €9m (£7m) deal.

The newspaper claims that Rodgers is keen to try and tie up a move quickly but he’ll most likely have to wait until after the World Cup as the 25-year-old is currently over in Brazil with the Belgian squad.

Alderweireld is predominantly a centre-back by trade but plays at right-back for his country and is also capable of playing in midfield if needed, so his versatility will be appealing to Liverpool – although it remains to be seen what position Rodgers wants to play him in if he manages to bring him to Anfield.

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The Belgian international was linked with a move to Liverpool last summer before he joined Atletico but his time in La Liga hasn’t gone according to plan. The former Ajax man has struggled to force his way into Diego Simeone’s starting eleven, making just 12 league appearances, which has led to speculation he could be on the move again this summer and it appears Liverpool have offered him a fresh start in England.