'Has a preference' - Liverpool given huge boost in pursuit of World Cup star, he can join in January

Liverpool have been given a major boost in their pursuit of Morocco World Cup star Sofyan Amrabat, according to a new report.

The report comes with the Reds having been heavily linked with completing moves for Jude Bellingham and Enzo Fernandez.

Portuguese outlet Record claimed that Liverpool had reached a 'pre-agreement' to sign Fernandez from Benfica, although sources close to the Liga Portugal side said, as per 90min, that these reports were 'premature'.

Meanwhile, the Reds have placed a bid of €130 million to sign Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund, as per Spanish outlet Defensa Central.

And they are also reportedly chasing a move for Fiorentina's Amrabat, who starred for Morocco at their World Cup during their run to the semi-finals.

TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey has claimed that, out of the aforementioned trio, Liverpool would be most likely to sign Amrabat in January, with deals for the other two midfielders being worked on for the summer.

Now, the Reds have been handed a fresh boost in their pursuit of the defensive midfielder as rumours over his future continue to circle.

Liverpool given Amrabat boost

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Amrabat 'wants to discover the Premier League', suggesting that England may be his next destination.

They add that the 26-year-old 'has a preference for Liverpool', but that Tottenham and Atletico Madrid are amongst the other clubs interested in signing him.

Spurs boss Antonio Conte has tracked the player for a number of years, whilst Amrabat said of Atletico in an interview with Marca (via Liverpool Echo): "I'm proud to be linked to top clubs like Barcelona and Atletico. But I'm a Fiorentina player. I respect the club, and I've a great relationship with the president.

"[Diego] Simeone? We have a good coach at Fiorentina too but... yes, I like El Cholo's style [of play]."

It is also claimed by Foot Mercato that although Fiorentina want to extend the midfielder's current deal, which expires in 2024, a €40 million fee may be enough to convince them to sell.

That could convince Liverpool to make their move in January and complete a deal for one of the 2022 World Cup's top stars.

Topics: Liverpool, Premier League, Transfers, Football World Cup, Tottenham Hotspur, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.