Liverpool are ‘considering triggering Alan Varela’s release clause’ with Reds impressed by Porto midfielder… who comes recommended by former Wolves star Ruben Neves

Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Porto’s rising star Alan Varela, who has been endorsed by former Wolves captain Ruben Neves.

The 22-year-old joined the Portuguese giants for €8million (£6.8m) from Boca Juniors in August, but has quickly established himself as a regular in Sergio Conceicao’s plans.

Varela has played 28 games for Porto in all competitions this season, delivering a series of impressive displays and starred in the 1-0 win over Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 last week.

And according to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, Liverpool are believed to be considering activating Varela’s €70m (£60m) release clause in the summer.

The Reds overhauled their midfield ahead of this season by bringing in Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo. 

And with Jurgen Klopp set to depart Anfield at the end of the season it appears Liverpool are determined to not waste any time in the transfer window.

The midfielder, who is under contract until June 2028, made 111 appearances for Boca Juniors before joining Porto last summer, but is yet to make his full international debut for Argentina.

And Varela has already made a positive impression on former Wolves and Porto star Ruben Neves, who described him as a the ‘complete’ midfielder.

‘He is an excellent player. It was an excellent signing for Porto, perhaps the team’s most regular reinforcement in terms of time and quality of play,’ the Portuguese, who spent six seasons at Molineux, told O Jogo.

‘He is extremely aggressive, is always very well positioned in defensive balances and, lately, he has been getting a little further forward, making his passing and finishing ability count. 

‘He’s already scored two goals. He is very complete and has been one of the most important elements of the team.’ 

The Argentine was impressive in last week’s 1-0 win over Arsenal in the Champions League

Former Wolves captain Ruben Neves has described Varela as ‘the complete midfielder’

Manchester City are also said to be keeping tabs on Varela, according to South American outlet Bolavip.

However, speaking on his Daily Briefing podcast, Fabrizio Romano noted the Premier League champions’ was not at an advanced stage. 

‘There have been reports doing the rounds of several top teams scouting Varela, including Manchester City, but for now my understanding is that it is just normal scouting activity, and nothing more advanced than that,’ he said.