Liverpool have joinedthe raceto land Porto's young starRuben Neves, but will face tough competition for his signaturewith both Juventus and Chelsea both said to bekeen on signing the midfielder, according to reports fromCalcioMercato.
The Reds have been linked with Neves before, most notably during the summerand manager Jurgen Klopp may well beconsidering the player again as he looks forreinforcements in the January transfer window in a bid to help the club's title challenge.
The 19-year-old has made 64 appearances for Porto having signed a professional contract with theclub in 2014. He has also made 12 appearances for his national side, already scoring two goals, despite not being included in thesquad for Portugal's recent World Cup qualifiers.
Jorge Mendes, Neves' agent, is understood to be exploring different options for the midfielder, with a move in next summer's transfer window the more likely option.
Although Serie Achampions Juventus are also believed to be interested in the player's signature, they are keen to scout Neves over a longer period of time which could leave the door ajar for a Premier League club to sign him.
3 Matches ✔�
3 Wins ✔�
11 Goals scored ✔�
More on Jurgen Klopp's award: https://t.co/MSDltSFHFf pic.twitter.com/SbEzvbvHWk
With Chelsea's indifferent start to the season, they appear to be in greater need of a signing like Neves, but Liverpool may seek to renew their interest in the Porto midfielder as the season progresses.
It would be hard to convince the youngster that there would be first teamopportunities at Liverpool with the club currently in scintillating form. The midfield partnership of Adam Lallana and Jordan Henderson has helped propel the club into the top four of the Premier League having won their last four matches.
For now, the Reds will be happy for Neves to continue learning his trade at Porto whilsthoping that both Chelsea and Juventus keep their distance in the coming months.