Liverpool to battle Arsenal to sign former Real Madrid star - Reports

According to a report by TBR Football, Liverpool are set to compete with Arsenal in the race to sign Takefusa Kubo from Real Sociedad. Kubo is one of the right-wingers the Reds hierarchy are currently evaluating to be Mohamed Salah's long-term replacement.

This development follows Federico Chiesa's signing last summer. Liverpool signed the right-winger from Juventus for a reported fee of €12 million. However, Chiesa has struggled since joining the Reds, making only three appearances. This could be why the Reds are interested in signing Kubo. Meanwhile, Arsenal might be looking to sign the Japan international as a competitor and natural replacement for Bukayo Saka on the right-wing.

Kubo has proven to be a pacey and tricky winger in recent years. Since he joined Real Sociedad from Real Madrid in July 2022, he has scored 20 goals and registered 15 assists in 103 games. This season, Kubo has scored four goals and registered one assist in 18 games for Real Sociedad.

If the deal materializes, Kubo could enhance the Reds' attack. The 23-year-old is contracted at Sociedad till June 2029 so securing his services won't come cheap.

Liverpool also interested in signing Frenkie de Jong next summer - Reports

RC Celta de Vigo v FC Barcelona - La Liga EA Sports - Source: Getty

Liverpool are interested in signing Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona next summer, according to a report by Fichajes.net. The Dutchman is one of the players Barcelona might be looking to sell to balance their finances.

Since joining La Blaugrana from Ajax in July 2019, De Jong has arguably not lived up to the expectations at Camp Nou. The 27-year-old has struggled with injuries, having just recoverd from an ankle injury suffered in March.

The Merseyside Giants' interest in signing him could be tied to their long-term quest to enhance their midfield. If signed, De Jong's stabilizing influence and ability to distribute the ball from a deep midfield role could greatly benefit the Reds.

In 222 appearances for Barcelona, De Jong has scored 17 goals and registered 21 assists. This season, he has registered just nine appearances, representing 262 minutes on the pitch. A move to Anfield could be a viable opportunity for the Dutchman to redeem his career.