LONDON: Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior as new manager Andoni Iraola looks to strengthen his squad with world-class players.
Vinicius, 26, is currently undergoing rehabilitation after undergoing surgery on his chin following his performance with Brazil at the World Cup.
The winger underwent an aesthetic procedure to balance the shape of his chin in Goiania after Brazil were eliminated by Norway in the last 16.
Vinicius is expected to be ready for the new season after undergoing surgery which is reported to have cost between £3,000 and £14,000.
Now, according to Spanish journalist Ramon Alvarez de Mon, Liverpool have put the player on their target list.
The Reds are looking for a high-profile striker following the departure of veteran player, Mohamed Salah.
However, the report states that Liverpool do not plan to sign Vinicius in this summer’s transfer window, instead hoping to sign him on a free transfer in 2027.
New contract negotiations between Real Madrid and Vinicius are said to have reached an impasse, with Liverpool now leading the Premier League clubs interested in his services.
Alvarez de Mon said on his YouTube channel: “Real Madrid is interested in renewing Vinicius’ contract and Vinicius also wants to stay at Real Madrid.
“That is the official stance of both parties, but so far I am not aware of any developments that the differences between them have been resolved.”
“Vinicius’ representatives will of course have to do their job… to find out the position of other clubs that might want to sign Vinicius, whether in 2026 or 2027. We are mainly talking about Premier League clubs.
“In the initial inquiry, there was one club that responded positively to the interest in Vinicius, but in terms of numbers, it would be more suitable for 2027. That club was Liverpool.
“If Vinicius becomes a free agent in 2027, not only will Premier League clubs be paying attention, but I’m sure Bayern Munich and PSG will also be monitoring him.
“I’m increasingly convinced that a contract renewal this summer is unlikely to materialize.
“Of course, how comfortable or uncomfortable Vinicius is under (Jose) Mourinho, the Brazilian’s performance and how the team functions will be a very important factor.”
Vinicius is considered one of the best players in the world and is set to have an important season under Mourinho.
Besides Vinicius, Liverpool have also been linked with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) striker Bradley Barcola, who is reportedly valued at £100 million.