Rumour: Liverpool to beat Chelsea to £30m Benfica star Markovic
Liverpool’s strengthening of their attacking options shows no sign of abating despite closing in on the signing of Rickie Lambert from Southampton, with the Daily Star reporting that the Reds are set to beat Chelsea to the signature of Lazar Markovic.
Markovic has caught the eye for his performances for Benfica this season, with the 20-year-old having impressed in the Portuguese side’s run to the Europa League final, though he took no part in the defeat on penalties to Sevilla due to suspension.
Jose Mourinho was thought to be keen on adding him to his Benfica recruits having signed Nemanja Matic in January, but Liverpool could pip the Blues to the Serbian’s signature, with a £30 million deal thought to be close to conclusion.
Brendan Rodgers is well aware that he needs to add more strength in depth to his squad if they are to compete on multiple fronts next season, with Liverpool having to deal with the added workload of the Champions League next season.
Alexis Sanchez is also believed to be a serious target as Rodgers looks to add competition to his front line despite the successes of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge and with youth on his side, the opportunity to mould another young player is thought to be an appealing aspect of the deal for the Reds manager.