Liverpool have contacted the representatives of Atalanta midfielder Teun Koopmeiners, according to new reports, with the Dutchman an international team-mate of new Reds signing Cody Gakpo.
Gakpo became the first signing for Jurgen Klopp’s side in the January transfer window, and made his debut against Wolves in the FA Cup on Saturday.
It wasn’t the ideal debut for the Dutchman, as Liverpool were held to a 2-2 draw at Anfield against Julen Lopetegui’s side, but it did represent the first opportunity for the Anfield crowd to see their new player in action.
Speaking after the game, Gakpo said: “Really good atmosphere [from the crowd].
“For my own game, I think I showed some good moments and some sloppy moments. So I can also still improve on those points and keep working and try to help the team as much as I can.
“Of course, you learn the most when you’re playing games, so I’m looking forward [to more].”
And as per reports, he may be joined by compatriot Koopmeiners at Anfield in the near future if supposed talks go to plan.
Liverpool keen on Koopmeiners
Earlier in January, the Reds were linked with making a move for Koopmeiners, with iNews claiming that they had watched the 24-year-old midfielder on several occasions as a potential transfer alternative to Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham.
This came amid claims from The Telegraph that Reds assistant Pep Lijnders, who is also Dutch, has been having an ‘increasingly important influence’ on transfer business at Anfield.
Now, new reports from Italian outlet Tutto Atalanta say that Liverpool have contacted Koopmeiners’ representatives ahead of a potential bid.
Furthermore, it is claimed that the player could be available for £35 million – only a marginally lower fee than the reported initial £37m paid to bring Gakpo to Anfield from PSV.
The midfielder has four goals and three assists to his name in 16 Serie A appearances, and joined Atalanta in 2021.
Prior to that, he smashed in 15 goals in 31 games for Eredivisie side AZ Alkmaar in the 2020/21 season, meaning he would certainly provide a more attacking dynamic to Liverpool’s midfield.
Standing at 6ft tall, meanwhile, he is also an aerial threat, and his attributes could make him an ideal option for Klopp’s midfield.
source: https://www.sportbible.com/