Liverpool Want €10m Barcelona Forward to be First Summer Signing – Report
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is determined to add more quality to his squad during the summer and it seems as though he will start by trying to land Barcelona forward Cristian Tello.
The 21-year-old came through the famed Barcelona academy and last season made a huge impact as he scored twice on his Champions League debut against Bayer Leverkusen. He played 22 times under Pep Guardiola and this season has been even more involved, making a total of 31 appearances in all competitions.
Tello has scored seven league goals this season and despite signing a new contract in December last year, there has been plenty of speculation linking him with a move away from the Camp Nou.
While his contract is until the summer of 2016, Tello has a buyout clause that stands at just €10million, a figure that is unlikely to discourage any potential suitors.
Spanish newspaper Marca believes that Liverpool are ready to meet this figure and are determined to make Tello one of their first summer signings.
The Reds attempted to sign the forward last summer, when Barcelona where considering loaning the youngster out for a season, but Vilanova instead kept him at the club and he has continued to impress.
Liverpool are desperate to strengthen their squad during the summer, with Rodgers admitting that he is looking to have similar success to his January dealings which saw Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho arrive at the club.
Rodgers' policy has been to sign young players who already have a wealth of top level experience, and Tello certainly fits that bill. The Spain Under-21 star has plenty of experience in the Champions League and should pick up his first league winners medal this weekend if Barcelona gain all three points.
His ability to play either as a winger or in a front three would make him a valuable asset for Liverpool who have lacked a cutting edge at times this season.
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