13 April 2023 , 01:00
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Liverpool are keeping a close eye on Red Bull Salzburg starlet Luka Sucic as they desperately scramble around for midfield recruits ahead of next season.
Jurgen Klopp intends to stage a dramatic rebuild in the centre of the park this summer after what has been a dire campaign at Anfield. The German has struggled to field a consistent midfield trio - a problem that is set to worsen in just a few months’ time.
Naby Keita, James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all see their deals expire at the end of the season, whilst Brazilian midfielder Arthur Melo will return to Juventus after a shocking loan stint on Merseyside. It was thought that Jude Bellingham could be a potential recruit but the Reds have recently pulled out of the race for the England star after being left concerned about the price they would have to pay for his services.
That has led to them looking for considerably cheaper alternatives. One of those could be Salzburg youngster Sucic.
The Reds have been linked with a move for the Croatian in the past, whilst Sky Sports suggest that the 20-year-old is currently being assessed ahead of a potential swoop. Sucic began his career with Austrian side Liefering before moving to Salzburg in the summer of 2020.
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He has gone on to accumulate just under 100 appearances for the side since then - winning two league titles and two Austrian Cups. The midfielder has also managed to earn four caps for the senior Croatian national team.
Liverpool have abandoned their pursuit of Jude Bellingham (Getty Images)Would Luka Sucic be a good signing for Liverpool? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Sucic has previously shared his view on speculation over his future and hinted that a move could be on the cards - particularly given Salzburg’s trend of selling their best players for huge fees.
Speaking to Croatian outlet Sportske Novosti, he said: "Of course, I'm glad that I'm mentioned in that context [of transfers], but I'm firmly on the ground, I'm not ‘flying’ because of those stories and writings.
“When the time comes, we'll see what happens, and weigh up what's best for my career to continue. It is [my intention] to play the best I can in the club and the national team, and then the transfer will come by itself.
"I also know that this is how things are done here, every summer there were sales of player. I assume that the upcoming summer transfer window will be the same or similar.
"I really don't know if my name will be found in that context, nor does it bother me. Let it be as it will be. I am open to everything, I can play in any league, but my style of play is best suited to Spain."
Sucic still has over two years left on his contract with Austria, while previous reports suggest Salzburg have slapped a €20m (£17m) asking price on him.