Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva appears to be surplus to requirements at Anfield after a summer filled with new arrivals, with his absence in Brendan Rodgers’ squad for their first two games of the Premier League season suggesting that he is set to be unceremoniously sold.
The Brazilian has attracted the interest of Serie A duo Inter Milan and Juventus, and Turkish Football cite reports that Besiktas are readying a €4m bid for his signature.
According to the report, the Istanbul giants have contacted Liverpool over his availability, and their subsequent preparing of an offer implies that the Merseyside heavyweights are willing to do business.
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Lucas has made 206 appearances for the Reds since joining from Gremio in 2007, and news that Rodgers could be looking to offload the 28-year-old has come as a shock.
While James Milner and Jordan Henderson will likely command a berth in central midfield this season, Lucas’ energy could be a significant loss to the side, and would limit their options in the centre of the park.
Not only that, but quietly shoving a loyal servant out of the Anfield door could certainly upset a few supporters.