Tottenham are reportedly battling Liverpool for £60million-rated Inter Milan star Nicolo Barella with a possible move in January not ruled out – a player Jurgen Klopp has previously raved about, judging by his comments earlier this year.
Barella, 25, has been a mainstay in the Inter Milan side ever since he joined the Nerrazzuri in 2019. The Italy ace has clocked up a huge 141 appearances in little over three seasons, having a hand in 49 goals for Inter during that time.
The Italy international has long been a target for the Reds. Reports claim Inter want £60million for him, and even since the summer window it has emerged that Klopp’s side could move for the ex-Cagliari midfielder. But they are not alone.
Newer reports have emerged highlighting Tottenham’s interest in Barella. Antonio Conte has ‘requested’ that his side sign him. So, a race is beginning to take shape between two of England’s biggest sides, for a player Klopp clearly rates.
Earlier this year, Liverpool took on Inter with Barella unavailable due to suspension, Klopp spoke of his relief: “When you saw the game you are really happy that Barella is not playing; he set up I think three or four (in Inter’s last game).”
Tottenham battling Liverpool for Barella: Klopp raved about player
It is clear to see that Klopp loves what he sees in Barella. A midfielder with an incredible engine that can have an impact in both boxes. Put him in a Liverpool shirt, and he would have a similar kind of impact to Gini Wijnaldum.
Easily affordable, Barella would give Liverpool a newer version of their current stock. But if Tottenham are keen, the Reds will face serious competition because of Conte. A player that got the best out of Barella in the 2020-21 season.
The combination guided Inter to the Scudetto that season. Barella would instantly become one of the Premier League’s best midfielders would he eventually depart for these shores. Liverpool or Spurs, though, that is the question.
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