Iraola’s £51m Liverpool move for Camavinga gathers pace

Liverpool’s technical director Andoni Iraola has opened talks over Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, with the Merseyside club valuing the Frenchman at £51 million.

The pursuit is driven by uncertainty in Liverpool’s midfield. Curtis Jones remains a target for Inter Milan, but the Serie A side’s offers have fallen short of Anfield’s valuation. Liverpool are seeking around £35 million for Jones, while Inter have tabled approximately £22 million so far. The Italian champions are prepared to wait for the 25-year-old, who has one year left on his deal.

The situation with Alexis Mac Allister adds further urgency. The 27-year-old’s contract expires in less than two years, and no new deal has been agreed, leaving his future uncertain. Liverpool’s hierarchy, including Richard Hughes and Andoni Iraola, may opt to add depth before the window closes.

Eduardo Camavinga’s own circumstances at Real Madrid have made him a viable option. The 23-year-old has slipped down the Bernabéu pecking order and lost his place in the French national team, despite being under contract until 2029. A move to Liverpool could offer him a fresh start in the Premier League, where his physical profile aligns with the competition’s demands.

High-level discussions have already taken place between Liverpool and Real Madrid, as well as with Camavinga’s representatives. According to a report, Liverpool’s Anfield hierarchy has made direct contact with their counterparts at the Bernabéu to formalise inquiries about a potential transfer. Andoni Iraola is identified as the driving force behind the pursuit.

Madrid’s €60 million release clause has emboldened Liverpool’s stance. British intermediaries have intensified efforts to craft a salary package that would facilitate an immediate move to England. The club believes the price point makes Camavinga more attainable than other targets, such as Adam Wharton and Alex Scott, whose valuations are approaching nine figures.

Camavinga’s reluctance to leave Real Madrid complicates the chase. The midfielder has instructed his agents to freeze foreign offers, hoping to regain his standing under Jose Mourinho. Liverpool’s task is to present an offer that outweighs his attachment to the Spanish capital and the Champions League football it offers.

For Liverpool, securing Camavinga would address immediate midfield concerns while hedging against further departures. For Camavinga, a move to Anfield represents a chance to revive his career under a new manager and in a league better suited to his attributes.