Journalist: Liverpool Targetting £100m Move For Star La Liga Striker | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Pursuit of Julian Alvarez: The Transfer That Won’t Go Away

Liverpool are actively shaping their attack for the Arne Slot era, and Julian Alvarez remains high on their radar. As Sam McGuire of Anfield Watch reports, the Reds have been admirers of the Argentine for some time, and a move to bring him to Anfield could be back on the agenda.

Exploring Options Beyond Isak

Despite ongoing links to Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, Liverpool are not solely fixated on the Swedish forward. As Anfield Watch states, “The former Borussia Dortmund man would favour a move to London. However, there’s now a belief that Merseyside appeals to the Sweden international.” If Newcastle qualify for the Champions League, the price tag could soar to £150 million, a figure that would test Liverpool’s willingness to break their transfer record.

The club have lined up alternatives, including RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. The Slovenian has massive potential, though he remains raw. As McGuire notes, “Within the club, he’s viewed as someone who could, with the right guidance, develop into the best striker in the world.” But Liverpool’s hierarchy knows that potential alone won’t cut it. They need a proven performer, and that is why Alvarez’s name keeps resurfacing.

Liverpool’s Longstanding Interest in Alvarez

The admiration for Julian Alvarez isn’t new. Anfield Watch makes it clear: “The former Manchester City man was on the club’s wishlist last summer. He (Richard Hughes) was at the top of it. Things just needed to fall into place for a deal to materialise.”

Gonzalo Siegrist, one of Liverpool’s key South American scouts, was an early advocate for Alvarez, having tracked him since his River Plate days. The club made a real effort last summer, with Alexis Mac Allister playing a role in trying to lure his friend to Anfield. “Newly appointed Sporting Director Richard Hughes flew to Madrid to hold talks with Alvarez’s agent, Fernando Hidalgo.” The Reds even engaged with Manchester City, but talks stalled due to the demands of the reigning Premier League champions.

Atletico Madrid ultimately secured Alvarez for an initial £65 million, with £17 million in add-ons. Now, just a year later, Liverpool are circling again. His performances in LaLiga and the Champions League – 20 goal involvements in 2,600 minutes – have only strengthened their conviction that he would thrive in a red shirt.

Photo: IMAGO

Natural Fit For Liverpool’s System

Internally, there’s a belief that Alvarez could be the ideal forward for Slot’s system. His pressing, work ethic, and versatility are all traits Liverpool value highly. As Anfield Watch states, “He’s a facilitator and a goalscorer. The work rate is there. He’s a grafter and he can play a variety of roles across the forward line.”

The potential inclusion of Darwin Nunez in a swap deal could make negotiations easier. Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone is a known admirer of the Uruguayan, and there’s a view that Nunez’s direct playing style would be well suited to LaLiga. “The Wanda Metropolitano could be the perfect environment for the Liverpool No9 to rediscover his Benfica form.”

However, a key stumbling block remains Liverpool’s internal valuation of Nunez. In January, they believed he could fetch £80 million, and they won’t want to undervalue him in any potential swap. Michael Edwards will ensure Liverpool get maximum value, and if the numbers don’t align, they won’t force the issue.

How Likely is Alvarez Transfer?

Liverpool’s attack needs refreshing. Mohamed Salah remains their talisman, but the supporting cast needs to evolve. Luis Diaz has been inconsistent, Nunez has struggled to find his finishing touch, and Cody Gakpo is still adapting to life in the Premier League. Alvarez, on the other hand, offers an immediate upgrade.

But will Atletico Madrid be willing to part ways with him after just one season? That remains the biggest question. Liverpool would likely need to bid in excess of £100 million, a fee that could test their resolve. It might take time, but this is a deal that hasn’t gone away.

As Anfield Watch rightly states, “If it works for everyone, Alvarez could finally end up at Anfield, 12 months after it could’ve happened.”

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This report will undoubtedly excite Liverpool supporters. Alvarez is the kind of dynamic, relentless forward that would slot perfectly into a high-intensity system. He’s proven himself at both Manchester City and Atletico Madrid, showing he can perform at the highest level.

The possibility of a swap deal involving Darwin Nunez makes sense. Simeone’s admiration for Nunez is well-documented, and if Liverpool can use that to their advantage, they may be able to negotiate a deal that works financially.

However, fans should temper their expectations. Atletico Madrid will not let Alvarez go cheaply, and a transfer fee north of £100 million is a major commitment, even for a club of Liverpool’s stature. The Reds may need to offload players to fund such a move.

That said, if Slot is looking for a pressing machine with technical quality and an eye for goal, Alvarez is the best option available. He’s a player built for Liverpool, and if the club truly believe he’s worth the investment, then this is a deal worth pursuing.