Liverpool weighing up move for Joan Laporta-preferred Barcelona target

There are no doubts that Barcelona are on the hunt for defensive midfielders in 2023. Although the club are desperately looking to extend the contract of Sergio Busquets, the veteran is likely to depart at the end of the season.

This has accentuated the need for a new holding midfielder that can serve as a long-term replacement for Busquets. Barcelona have found no shortage of options in the market either, with Ruben Neves among the players linked with a move to Camp Nou.

The Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder’s contract at Molineux is expiring soon while his experience and skillset make him an appealing target for Barcelona.

However, according to Mirror, Liverpool are ready to join Barça in the race to sign the Wolves star. They are weighing up a move for the player in the summer of 2023, as part of Jurgen Klopp’s plans to reinforce the ranks in central midfield.

Liverpool’s interest in Neves comes in the midst of ongoing issues in the club’s midfield unit. The trio of Jordan Henderson, James Milner and Thiago are well past their prime whereas Jordan Henderson is not getting any younger either.

The Brazilian has also struggled with form at Anfield, thus accentuating the need for someone like Neves, who has extensive experience in the Premier League and has what it takes to make a difference at Anfield.

Barcelona, though, are not likely to give up easy in this chase. They do rank Neves highly and even though Martin Zubimendi is viewed as a better option for Xavi, the Portuguese international does offer certain skillsets that could prove to be handy for Xavi in the years to come.

Apart from Liverpool and Barcelona, Newcastle United are believed to be the other club interested in Neves in the coming summer, as the Wolves star looks to take the next big step in his career.