According to reports in Italy, Liverpool are keen on bringing Empoli playmaker Riccardo Saponara to the Premier League in the summer.
The central midfielder has been a key performer so far this season, contributing nine assists and scoring four goals, helping the Azzurri to 14th spot in Serie A, four points clear of the relegation zone.
Five of Saponara’s assists have come in the Italian top flight, making him the joint-highest assists-maker in the division so far this term. Similarly, only Miralem Pjanic—who has scored six goals as well as his five assists—can top Saponara for decisive output as far as central midfielders are concerned.
According to Italian source La Nazione [as per talkSPORT], Saponara’s form has prompted Jurgen Klopp to take a specific interest in the 23-year-old.
While the report reveals that Empoli would be unwilling to offload the player in January—particularly as they look to preserve their top-flight status—Klopp may be able to get his man next summer.
Following Liverpool’s rampant performance against Manchester City at the weekend, the German coach may not feel he has any pressing need for new attacking talents—particularly following the performances of Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino—but the addition of Saponara could give the Reds that added extra as they look to secure a return to the Champions League.
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