"My dream" - Real Madrid target dubbed the "bloodhound" opens door to Liverpool move

The Brazilian midfielder, who currently plays for Flamengo in his home country, was recently a part of the side that won this year's Copa Libertadores.

Former Inter Milan striker Gabriel Barbosa scored the only goal of the game, with Gomes also impressing throughout the final.

Liverpool's interest in the player first surfaced in September - but he nearly joined Manchester United in the summer transfer window.

That is according to South American expert Tim Vickery, who told talkSPORT that there was speculation Gomes could be involved in a swap deal, with Andreas Pereira moving to Flamengo on a permanent deal, having been on loan last season.

Gomes, who is 21 and has also been linked with Real Madrid, is described as a 'bloodhound' for his intense pressing and work rate in midfield. He also has a proficiency in his tackling, and can carry the ball forward.

Replying to a question about whether he would join Liverpool or another Premier League team, Gomes replied (quotes via ESPN): "Liverpool is a team I would play for. I have the greatest desire to play."

Now, in quotes from Coluna do Fla, Gomes has said: "I dream of playing in several European leagues. But the Premier League is the one I watch the most, and is the most competitive.

In September, Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo claimed that Flamengo want €60 million for the player - which may well be within Liverpool's price range.