Liverpool tipped to sign Thiago successor after £41.5m sensation news – Whelan
Liverpool can “plan for the future” by signing Barcelona wonderkid Gavi this summer, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed playing with the likes of fellow La Masia graduate Thiago would be a “great learning tool” for the 17-year-old.
According to Spanish outlet Sport (17 April), Liverpool have “intensified their interest” in Gavi – with his contract extension still yet to be signed.
The Spain international’s current deal is set to expire in June 2023 – and includes a release clause of just €50million (£41.5million).
Gavi has made 39 appearances for Barcelona during his breakthrough season at the club, notching two goals and six assists.
Whelan claimed it is now time for Liverpool to plan for the “next five years” with key members of their midfield on the wrong side of 30.
“This is the kind of club Liverpool are now, planning for the future,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“They’ve had the success for a long spell, but there comes a time where you have to look at what you can do in terms of the future – the next five years.
“Players like Thiago, Fabinho and Henderson aren’t going to be able to maintain these levels for much longer. Getting young players in while they’re still at the club – it’s a great learning tool for them.
“That way, players like Gavi or Harvey Elliot can come into the side seamlessly when the time comes for these older players to move on.”
Liverpool sit second in the Premier League, one point adrift of leaders Man City.
However, the Reds advanced to the FA Cup final at City’s expense after a 3-2 win at Wembley on Saturday (16 April).
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