Italian outlet CalcioMercato report that Jose Mourinho wants to raid Paris Saint-Germain for Liverpool target Leandro Paredes to replace Gini Wijnaldum this week – but surely a move to Anfield is better than a return to Roma?
Wijnaldum, 31, ended a disappointing season at PSG after leaving Liverpool – to join Mourinho’s Roma. But after making his debut for Roma, he then suffered a broken leg in training. A bitterly disappointing blow for Wijnaldum.
Roma have decided to bring in a replacement, rather than rely on the depth of their squad. The report claims that Mourinho is targeting Denis Zakaria of Juventus, or Argentina international Paredes – Wijnaldum’s PSG teammate.
Reports emerged this week that Liverpool were also looking at a move for £148,000-a-week Paredes. The Reds are said to be keen on a midfielder, after Monday’s showing against Manchester United highlighted such a need.
Now, Mourinho could rival Liverpool in the race for Paredes – as he looks to replace ex-Anfield star Wijnaldum. It is unclear how much PSG want for the ex-Zenit star – but he could be open to an exit, with his contract ending in 2024.
Mourinho wants Liverpool target Paredes: Anfield or Roma?
The Reds desperately need a midfielder. Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are both injured – and are out of contract at the end of the season. Curtis Jones is out of form and also injured, as is superstar Thiago.
So, regardless of injuries, Liverpool will feel they need another midfielder anyway. Paredes would instantly go into a Liverpool side, fighting for the Premier League title, Champions League medals and other competitions.
While a return to Roma – a club where he played 54 times in all competitions – might prove tempting, it would be the easy option. Paredes should test himself, at the peak moment of his career, at Anfield. A better, more-exciting move.
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