As the transfer window continues to move along, Liverpool is facing a battle with Premier League rivals Chelsea for a midfielder who is already impressing in England
Liverpool and Chelsea are ready to battle it out for Brighton midfielder Yasin Ayari this summer, according to reports, as interest steps up in the Sweden international.
The Reds continue to be linked with various central midfielders, with the position being a potentially key area for improvement under Andoni Iraola next season. Important stars such as Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch suffered a drop-off in form last campaign, compared to their usual standards, bringing up questions about how the manager may shake up his options.
Injecting some energy and intensity into the midfield is one possible solution, with the transfer window this summer offering a perfect chance to do just that.
While links have persisted over the likes of Alex Scott and Adam Wharton, Brighton and Sweden star Ayari has emerged as the latest link.
A report from CaughtOffside claims that Liverpool is stepping up interest in the 22-year-old after an impressive World Cup campaign with his nation.
Ayari scored twice in four appearances over the tournament before an eventual exit at the hands of France, combining some huge displays with his already impressive Premier League performances.
The Reds are not alone with their interest, as rivals Chelsea are also keen on a deal, while the report claims that Newcastle United and Tottenham have also been linked.
Yasin Ayari has been linked with a transfer to Liverpool this summer(Image: (Photo by Martín Fonseca/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images))
It’s unclear whether Brighton are open to selling at this stage, though Ayari’s contract only runs until 2027, giving interested teams a chance to land a potential bargain with just the one year left on his deal.
The Swedish ace would be Premier League-ready, having 66 appearances in the competition to his name so far, though there is plenty more to come from him.
There is already a connection there in the Liverpool roster too, with Alexander Isak playing alongside him with the national team over the summer months.
“He has the physicality and mental resilience to always be available,” Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler said last season about the midfield ace. “That is a key thing in the Premier League, to have resilience against injuries.”
While that would certainly be a boost for Liverpool, considering the injury issues suffered last season, there are some clear areas for improvement too.
“He always wants to improve and make the next step,” added Hurzeler. ” He is a good listener. He lives for football. You can feel that when you see him and how he wants to get better. That is how you develop as a young player.
“That is why he is a very important player for us. He is improving day-by-day and that is key for us.”
That may make him an ideal signing for Liverpool, though the priority as things stand appears to be focused on signing a winger, before potential midfield additions.
