If early reports in today’s media are to be believed, than Liverpool have wrapped up the signing of Atletico Madrid fullback on a season long loan deal to make the promising defender Reds boss Brendan Rodgers seventh signing of the transfer window.
The promising 20-year old found his chances few and far between last year as Diego Simeone’s side captured their first La Liga title since the 1995/1996 season and finished runners-up to cross town rivals Real Madrid in a lively Champions League final. Although he’s being touted as a future international star, it looks like the Reds have worked their magic and he’ll be spending the next season on loan at the Anfield outfit with an option to buy for a fee believed to be in the region of £5mil should he impress in England.
Liverpool CEO Ian Ayre reportedly flew to Spain midweek to hash out the finer points of the deal and to make another attempt at finally bringing long-term target Alberto Moreno back with him. The Sevilla fullback could very well be joining Manquillo in the Premier League as Reds boss Brendan Rodgers looks to address his side’s defensive frailties.
The 20-year old will be in line to push Liverpool stalwart Glen Johnson — who is yet to agree to a new contract at Anfield — as well as fellow youngster Jon Flanagan, for a spot in the starting eleven. With Champions League football adding an extra layer of complications to this seasons domestic campaign, Rodgers will need to focus far more on rotating the squad and selecting the right players at the right time. Manquillo will certainly add a bit of depth to a position that’s been sorely lacking in it.
