Liverpool have the perfect shirt number to tempt Thiago Alcantara to make the move to Anfield. Reports in Germany claim the Premier League champions have initiated contact with Bayern Munich over a deal for the midfielder.
Liverpool have been heavily linked with a move for Alcantara, who has entered the final season of his contract at the Allianz Arena.
The 29-year-old has refused an extension due to his wish for a new challenge so this window represents Bayern Munich’s final opportunity to cash in before he can speak to clubs about a free transfer next summer.
According to German publication Bild, Liverpool have spoken with Bayern Munich sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic and further talks are expected.
Liverpool continue to insist Alcantara is not an active target but the speculation from the continent has set tongues wagging.
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Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick would understand if Thiago sought a move to England.
“I can understand when a player thinks about a move,” Flick said.
“Thiago played in Spain for Barcelona and in the Bundesliga for Bayern. If maybe he wants to play in the Premier League now, I totally understand.
“That’s why I would like to have him as a coach on the team for the next few years, but that’s life. It will go on.”
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes Alcantara would be a “great signing” for Liverpool.
“He is a conductor, he is somebody who controls the tempo of the game,” Ferdinand said on BT Sport.
“He’s got wing mirrors so he can see behind him, he can see all angles, he can play every pass in the game.
“Intelligent player, speaks the language which is an important part of it as well. He’d be a dream to have for someone like Liverpool, definitely. He’s the type of player they probably haven’t got.
“Does he walk into Liverpool’s team? Liverpool’s team are a formidable team now.
“You take someone out of that team, you’re going to lose something. Does he give you much more? He gives you something different.”
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