Real Madrid superstar turned down big-money move to Liverpool in 2023: Reports
Federico Valverde reportedly rejected a move to Liverpool in the summer of 2023 after Real Madrid received a big-money offer. The Uruguayan midfielder will face the Reds on Wednesday night (November 27) in the UEFA Champions League.
Relevo journalist Jorge Picon reports that Valverde snubbed the chance to move to Anfield. Jurgen Klopp was rebuilding his midfield, and the 26-year-old was one of the preferred names to strengthen the squad.
Real Madrid were stacked in midfield following Jude Bellingham's arrival. Liverpool missed out on the England international and saw it as an opportunity to pursue Valverde.
The Merseysiders didn't make an offer but held meetings and presented their project to the Uruguay international. It was an enticing proposal, but Valverde wanted to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Valverde has been a massive hit with Madrid since arriving from Uruguayan outfit Penarol in July 2018 for €6 million. He's been a mainstay in Carlo Ancelotti's team this season with four goals and two assists in 18 games across competitions.
The two-time UEFA Champions League winner hinted at previously rejecting interest in his services when speaking last season. He said:
"If they want me out of Real Madrid, they'll have to kill me."
Liverpool head into tomorrow's game against Madrid with a midfield shining under Arne Slot. Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai are coming to the fore for the Premier League leaders.
Real Madrid star Federico Valverde reportedly remains on Liverpool's wishlist
Valverde made clear his desire to remain at Real Madrid that summer, but Liverpool appear to still be keeping tabs. He's not enjoying his best season at the Bernabeu, and he's under consideration for a move to right-back amid an injury crisis.
Fichajes.net reports that Valverde is being eyed by several Premier League clubs, including the Reds. Manchester City is also in the picture, and both see him as a unique opportunity to strengthen their midfield.
Valverde has just under five years on his contract with Los Blancos so there is no pressure for a sale. The source also doesn't give a potential fee it will take to prise him away from the Spanish capital.
However, it does mention that Valverde's release clause agreed in his contract renewal in November last year is astronomical. The Athletic claims the release clause is €1 billion meaning City and Liverpool would likely be looking to negotiate a transfer.