Liverpool Face Battle with City for Flamengo Right-Back | OneFootball

City Move to Hijack Liverpool Target Sparks Transfer Battle

Wesley Emerges as Key Target in Right-Back Search

With Arne Slot preparing for his first summer transfer window in charge at Anfield, Liverpool are actively scouring the market for reinforcements. One key area of concern is the right-back position, with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s likely departure accelerating the need for an elite-level replacement.

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Real Madrid’s efforts to bring forward Alexander-Arnold’s exit for the Club World Cup—offering a modest €1m (£850k)—has only added to the urgency. While Liverpool weigh that proposal, their focus increasingly turns to Flamengo’s highly-rated Wesley.

Liverpool and City in Transfer Tug-of-War

The 21-year-old Brazilian has long been admired by the Reds. “His agent recently held talks with Liverpool,” and reports confirm the club have been tracking him for over a year. Wesley, known for his dynamic blend of attacking flair and defensive resilience, would complement Slot’s philosophy seamlessly.

However, Sky Sports journalist Lyall Thomas confirmed via X that Manchester City are now actively pursuing the same player. ” Reliable sources suggest Pep Guardiola’s side “would like to close before the Club World Cup,” with plans to feature him during their pre-season stint in Miami.

Pressure Mounts on Liverpool to Act Fast

Wesley is just one of several names on Liverpool’s shortlist, which includes Jeremie Frimpong, Vanderson, and Givairo Read. However, his status as a breakout star in South American football—with a potential £30m price tag—makes him a marquee target.

Despite Conor Bradley’s impressive development, injuries and limited experience mean Liverpool are keen to bring in someone who can start immediately and offer long-term value.

Rising Talent Draws Elite Competition

The tug-of-war for Wesley underlines the shifting power dynamics in the Premier League’s recruitment strategies. Liverpool’s ability to stay ahead in such battles will be a litmus test for Slot’s backroom and the club’s evolving transfer committee.

The stakes are rising fast, and missing out on top-tier targets like Wesley could leave Anfield exposed in a key area of the pitch.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Worryingly familiar, isn’t it? Liverpool line up a long-term target, monitor his progress, and just when the moment arrives—City pounce.

Wesley feels like one of those signings we’ll rue not acting on. With Alexander-Arnold set to move and Bradley not quite ready to shoulder the full burden, the club cannot afford to hesitate. We’ve already seen how delayed deals cost us depth last season, especially in defence.

It’s not just about Wesley’s talent—which is immense—it’s about the symbolism. Slot needs backing early in the window. If we allow a rival to grab a player we’ve scouted for over a year, what message does that send? Fans want intent, not indecision.

What’s frustrating is the groundwork has been laid. His agent has spoken to the club. Liverpool know what’s needed. If the price is £30m, then pay it—before Guardiola turns another prospect into a world-beater at the Etihad.

This should be a defining early moment for Slot’s regime. Let’s hope the club doesn’t blink first.