Liverpool target Alan Varela passed his transfer audition against Arsenal with flying colours.
The 22-year-old played 97 minutes of Porto’s Champions League second-leg tie versus the Gunners, although he was stretchered off in second-half stoppage time, meaning he was not involved in extra-time.
However, during his time on the Emirates pitch, Varela was mightily impressive.
Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard may have grabbed the headlines for his world-class assist for Leandro Trossard and his immense work-rate, but Varela was also excellent in tricky circumstances.
Porto handled themselves extremely well against the Gunners, with Arsenal looking more unsettled than in any other game in 2024.
Varela played his part in this, making three clearances, three tackles and two interceptions during the match.
Furthermore, he maintained a 91% pass accuracy, losing possession just four times. All in all, it was a rather impressive display from the Argentine, who acquitted himself well on his first ever senior appearance on English soil.
Liverpool have been keeping close tabs on Varela in recent weeks, with the Reds keen on adding him to their midfield ahead of next season.
As a result, they will likely have been watching his performance against Arsenal closely and Liverpool will no doubt have been left impressed.
What has Fabrizio Romano said about Alan Varela?
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently discussed Varela’s potential summer move in his column for CaughtOffside.
“There have been reports doing the rounds of several top teams scouting Varela, including Manchester City, but for now my understanding is that it is just normal scouting activity, and nothing more advanced than that,” Romano said.
Alan Varela’s goal for @FCPorto. He scored a similar goal for Boca in the Copa Libertadores 🤩 pic.twitter.com/PHdZUlIBVj
— Boca in English | Podcast (@CABJ_English) January 28, 2024
“Many clubs are sending scouts to follow the 22-year-old midfielder as he’s been excellent for Porto in the recent months.
“I’m also told he has €70m release clause in his contract, and we know how difficult it is to negotiate with Portuguese clubs, so this could be a difficult deal if any suitors come forward in the summer.”
