Roberto Firmino has consistently been linked with a move away from Liverpool this summer, and it appears Juventus are set to formalise their interest in the Brazilian.
Recent reports have suggested Liverpool hope to keep hold of Firmino, but the Reds could be tempted to sell if an adequate offer arrives for him.
According to Goal Brazil, Juventus are in contact with the Brazilian's agent.
The 30-year-old forward has just one year left on his contract and Liverpool have shown no indication that they will extend his current deal.
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But despite no longer being a regular starter, Firmino remains a useful squad option at Liverpool.
This season especially, his quality and experience could be a valuable asset to Jürgen Klopp.
The rejuvenation of the Red's frontline has officially begun off the back of the sale of club legend Sadio Mané to Bayern Munich.
Darwin Nuñez has arrived at the club to replace Mané, but there’s no guarantee he’ll acclimatise to the high demands of the Premier League straight away.
Additionally, despite enjoying a very strong first half season on Merseyside, Luis Diaz may find his second term a little trickier with opposing defenders more clued up on how to deal with his threat on the ball.
So, there very well could be a role for Firmino at Anfield this campaign.
If others in the frontline are struggling, he can come in and provide valuable quality and experience for Liverpool.
But will that really be enough for Firmino?
The Brazilian needs game time if his hopes of starting at the Qatar World Cup in winter are to be satisfied.
His concerns in that regard would’ve only become more pressing off the back of Gabriel Jesus’ big money move to Arsenal this summer.
Jesus, Firmino’s main competitor for the no. 9 role in the Brazil national team, will be playing week in, week out for the gunners prior to the tournament.
Firmino meanwhile will be watching on from the bench at Liverpool while the likes of Darwin Nuñez and Diogo Jota play ahead of him.
If the Liverpool forward does wish to start for his country at the World Cup, he’d be wise to push for a move to Juventus.
Topics: Liverpool, Liverpool Transfer News & Rumours, Juventus, Roberto Firmino
Robert Worthington