Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has provided the latest transfer news on the future of Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara.
Alcantara’s contract with the Reds will expire in the summer and as it stands, the 32-year-old can openly talk to other clubs or even sign a pre-contract agreement.
The Spain international has not featured for Jurgen Klopp’s side since requiring surgery on a hip issue that ruled him out of the final weeks of the 2022-23 campaign.
However, he’s expected to return to full training later this month.
He has been linked with a move to his former club Barcelona, who are keen on bolstering their midfield in January but Romano claims Alcantara’s focus is on Liverpool.
In his Daily Briefing for CaughtOffside, he wrote: “Despite the rumours, no, I’m not aware of any movement for Thiago Alcantara right now.
“It’s a very quiet January for him so far, no talks and focus on Liverpool as he wants to return as soon as possible on the pitch. The story could change in the summer, but now it’s very quiet.”
Alcantara could return to the matchday squad at the end of the month and Klopp is hoping Liverpool don’t use the midfielder too early.
“I think Thiago will be at one point in team training [in January]. Thiago is in a very good moment as well but we just have to make sure we don’t use him then too early,” the German said on December 29.
“The hip thing in and around that area is just a long-term thing as well.
“There were for sure days where he could have easily trained but it’s all about how can he be back then in the long term, and that’s what we are working on.”
Read more: Full Arsenal squad to face Liverpool
Mikel Arteta calls on Arsenal fans to create atmosphere for Liverpool clash
Jurgen Klopp hints at system change due to absence of Mohamed Salah