It seems that Asier Illarramendi is this month’s Mateo Kovacic, with the tabloids refusing to stop recirculation a transfer rumour which looks to have little or no truth in it.
The Metro are the latest perpetrators found promoting the Illarramendi-Liverpool link, with reporter Jamie Sanderson claiming that Brendan Rodgers’ side will follow up an initial £10m offer with a £13.8m bid next week.
We’ve endured an on again, off again relationship with this rumour for several months now, but the Metro are insistent that the Reds are now close to getting their man.
SEE MORE:
Ranking six ‘uninspiring’ Liverpool signings who proved to be brilliant
Brendan Rodgers and Kolo Toure talk pre-season, Aussie Rules, transfers and koalas
Christian Benteke closes in on Anfield move; terms agreed and medical date set
They state that former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez rejected our opening approach for the player, as he still wanted to have a closer look at him and see what he could do, but is now ready to let him go.
The 25-year-old defensive midfielder joined Madrid from Real Sociedad in 2013. He’s made 90 appearances during his first two years at the club, winning four major honours, including the Champions League last year.
Liverpool have already brought in six new players this summer and are thought to be closing in on a deal for a seventh (via BBC Sport), but Rodgers might still consider adding another midfielder to his squad following the departure of Steven Gerrard at the end of last season.
Unfortunately, don’t be surprised if this one proves to be complete and utter rubbish.