Report: Liverpool now pushing hard to sign £25m player compared to Rodri

Liverpool are now frantically trying to finalise the first signing of Arne Slot’s reign at Anfield.

Michael Edwards has cut a measured figure so far this summer after returning to Merseyside as Liverpool’s new CEO of Football – taking his time to consider which signings are needed to navigate life after Jurgen Klopp.

Now, Liverpool appear to have settled on a target – and are pushing hard to secure his signature…

Liverpool want Mats Wieffer

A story from De Telegraaf now claims that Liverpool are desperately trying to sign Feyenoord No.20 Mats Wieffer.

The Dutch news outlet believe Liverpool are working hard to hijack the Netherlands international’s move to Brighton – as the Seagulls have already agreed a €30m (£25m) deal with Feyenoord.

De Telegraaf are pessimistic about Liverpool’s chances of signing Wieffer – however – as they state that the Reds have arrived “too late” to scupper Brighton’s agreement.

It is said that the 24-year-old is now discussing personal terms with Brighton, although there is yet to be an agreement over the details of his contract, so Liverpool may have a glimmer of a chance.

Photo by NESimages/Herman Dingler/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Wieffer helped Slot’s Feyenoord finish second in the Eredivisie last season, scoring six goals while also providing four assists across 42 appearances in his defensive midfield role.

Michael Edwards could sign the new Rodri for Arne Slot

If Liverpool can take advantage of the fact Brighton are yet to agree personal terms with Wieffer, Edwards could sign the new Rodri for Slot.

The man from Borne has been compared to the Manchester City No.16 as a result of his immense ability to screen the backline, break up play and progress the ball forward.

Wieffer impressively averaged 2.9 successful tackles per game in the Eredivisie last season – as shown by WhoScored – while also completing 62.6 passes every 90 minutes on average.

Photo by Silvia Lore/Getty Images

To compare that with Rodri, the Spain international averages 2.1 tackles per game in the Premier League, but does make around 107 passes per game in Pep Guardiola’s possession-hungry Manchester City side.

Wieffer has also been compared to Sergio Busquets as a result of his composure and effectiveness in that No.6 role.

READ MORE: “Incredible” player still struggling to find a new club after being released by Liverpool

Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Liverpool still have a chance of hijacking Brighton’s agreement…