Reds closing in on Zielinski deal
Liverpool are closing in on a deal for Udinese midfielder Piotr Zielinski.
The Reds have tabled a bid of £9.5million for the Poland international, who has spent the past two seasons on loan at Empoli.
Zielinski has also attracted interest from Napoli but the 22-year-old has made it clear that Anfield is his preferred destination.
Who is Zielinski and why is Jurgen Klopp so keen to secure his services?
Born in Zabkowice Slaskie in the south west of Poland, he was signed by Udinese in 2011 from Zaglebie Lubin after impressing the Serie A outfit with his performances for Poland U17s.
He had previously had trials with Feyenoord and Heerenveen. He cost Udinese just £80,000.
He was handed his Serie A debut against Cagliari in November 2012 at the age of 18. He made nine senior appearances in 2012/13 and 11 the following campaign.
Zielinski moved on loan to newly-promoted Empoli for 2014/15 in order to secure regular first-team football to aid his development, He played 30 games as they retained their top-flight status.
The loan was extended for a further year and last season he kicked on impressively, scoring five goals and providing four assists in 36 matches.
Liverpool scouted him extensively and the reviews were glowing. They looked into the possibility of buying him in January but opted to wait until the summer.
Technically gifted, with a fine range of passing and a strong work ethic, he has played most of his football as a central midfielder but he can also perform out wide or in the No. 10 role.
He has been part of the senior Poland squad since making his debut in a friendly against Liechtenstein three years ago. He was an unused sub as the Poles beat Northern Ireland 1-0 in their opening game of Euro 2016 on Sunday.
Zielinski would help to strengthen Klopp’s midfield options. The German’s squad will also be bolstered by the arrival of Marko Grujic in pre-season following the £5.1million deal Liverpool struck with Red Star Belgrade back in January.
Zielinski has long since been aware of the Reds’ interest and has made no secret of his desire to link up with Klopp.
“I work hard in Empoli so that in June I may have a chance for such a big transfer,” he said back in March.
Source: Liverpool Echo
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