Liverpool boost after president confirms Argentina defender interest
Liverpool want Argentina and River Plate defender Gabriel Mercado, says president
Liverpool are chasing Argentina defender Gabriel Mercado, according to River Plate’s president.
The 29-year-old has been a regular part of Argentina’s national team this summer as they attempt to win the Copa America in the United States.
Jurgen Klopp was photographed in the stands as Argentina played Chile earlier in the tournament, although reports suggested the Reds boss was keeping tabs on Gonzalo Higuain.
However, River Plate defender Mercardo has emerged as a potential target for the Liverpool boss as Klopp looks to strengthen his defensive options ahead of the new season.
And River’s president Rodolfo D’Onofrio has confirmed that Liverpool are interested in the South American but a potential transfer could hinge on whether Argentina win the Copa America.
“Klopp likes him. But for Mercado to go to England, Argentina need to be champions. Winning a title with the national team would allow him to play in England,” D’Onofrio told Fox Sports.
“If he had the passport it would be different, but being champion he will have the possibility.”
Liverpool finished in eighth place in the Premier League table at the end of Klopp’s first season in charge at Anfield.
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The Reds lost 3-1 to Sevilla in the Europa League final in Basel last month.
