Liverpool leading race to sign Porto defender
Liverpool are leading the race to sign Porto's Diogo Leite this summer.
Porto are determined not to lose the 19-year-old centre-back, who is also a target for Arsenal and Manchester City, but Liverpool have been impressed with the youngster’s performances for the Portuguese side’s B team this season and have made their interest in him clear.
Reports in Portugal have suggested that Arsenal are prepared to meet Leite’s €15m release clause this summer, but Anfield is his likeliest destination at the moment. Liverpool are building a strong reputation for developing young talent under Jürgen Klopp and that could help them steal a march on Arsenal and City. If the deal is completed they plan to send the defender out on loan next season to ensure that he plays regular first-team football.
A host of Premier League scouts were present at the Emirates Stadium as Leite helped Porto win their Under-23 meeting with Arsenal on Tuesday night. His defensive partner, Diogo Queiros, is a £10m target for Bournemouth.
Source: Guardian
This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.