Liverpool transfer news: Klopp on pole as Atalanta set Koopmeiners price

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Liverpool are now in pole position to sign Teun Koopmeiners of Atalanta BC in the summer transfer window. His Serie A side are also planning for the Netherlands star’s possible sale.

That is according to Calciomercato, which reports that Atalanta will strive to make a profit on Koopmeiners if they fail to qualify for the Champions League. La Dea sit sixth in Serie A after 24 games. But they are now four points from the top four after back-to-back defeats.

Roma in fifth place also have a game in hand on the top four and Atalanta, which could lift the Giallorossi into third. La Dea had held a Champions League qualifying position just four games ago. But boss Gian Piero Gasperini has overseen three defeats to just one win since.

So, Atalanta chiefs are anticipating a potential auction for Koopmeiners that would yield a hefty transfer profit this summer. The Gewiss Stadium side took the midfielder to Bergamo from AZ Alkmaar in August 2021 for €14m (£12m). Now, they value him at €50m (£44m).

La Dea’s valuation is beyond the budgets of his suitors in Serie A, so the 25-year-old could leave Italy. Juventus had indicated the most interest. While a host of Premier League clubs have shown an interest in Koopmeiners’ transfer from Atalanta but Liverpool lead the race.

Liverpool began exploring Teun Koopmeiners’ transfer from Atalanta in January

Liverpool began exploring Koopmeiners’ transfer from Atalanta in January as they looked to improve their midfield. Tutto Atalanta reported that Anfield chiefs held talks with the 15-cap Netherlands anchor’s agent. Jurgen Klopp led their chase but would not pay €40m (£35m).

Also, iNews reported that Liverpool had scouted Koopmeiners extensively in the months leading up to the mid-season market. Yet Klopp’s refusal to match La Dea’s asking price could now cost the Reds a few million more. The 25-year-old is under contract until 2025.

Atalanta also have the option to extend the contract of Koopmeiners, who La Dea legend Domenico Progna calls ‘extraordinary’, to 2026. While the AZ Alkmaar product has scored six and assisted three goals over 23 Serie A appearances so far this season, starting in 22.