Latest developments
- Liverpool are keen to sign Inter's Nicolo Barella.
- The Reds could make a player-plus-cash offer.
- The Italy international has a long-term contract with Inter.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2/5): Liverpool eyeing Barella part-exchange deal
Liverpool hold a serious interest in signing Barella from Inter ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.
That is according to Inter Live, who claim that the Reds could put together a part-exchange offer in a bid to prise the midfielder away from the San Siro.
Value (3/5): Reds to offer Chiesa or Nunez
The report claims that Inter will demand around €100m (£86m) to consider selling Barella in the summer transfer window. However, there is a suggestion that Liverpool offer Chiesa or Nunez in an effort to bring down Inter's asking price.
Chiesa struggled to establish himself in Arne Slot's side following his arrival from Juventus last summer, having started just three of his 12 competitive appearances this season.
As for Nunez, he has been unable to find consistency during his three-year stay at Anfield. As a result, Liverpool could look to move him on at the end of the season.
Suitability (4/5): Top European midfielder
Barella has grown into one of Europe's best midfielders during his six-year stay at Inter. As per FBref, the midfielder is the leader in Serie A this season for through balls, while he is also in the top 10 for passes into the final third, passes into the penalty area and shot-creating actions.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Competition for places
Barella tends to play as one of three central midfielders in Simone Inzaghi's 3-5-2 formation. However, at Liverpool, he would likely have to play as one of the two in Slot's 4-2-3-1 set-up.
As a result, he would have to compete with the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Curtis Jones for a starting spot. The Italy international would surely fancy his chances of moving to the front of the pecking order, although there may be some concern about whether he can match Mac Allister and Gravenberch's defensive abilities.
Logic (3/5): Stay put or new challenge
Barella may be reluctant to leave a club where he enjoys a key role in the squad, especially as he is under contract until the summer of 2029.
With that said, the 28-year-old may feel the time is right to experience a new league after spending all of his career playing in Italy.
Whisper+ verdict: 16/25
Barella is a top operator and would be a strong addition to the Liverpool squad ahead of the 2025-26 season. However, it is unclear whether Barella would entertain the move, and it will also be difficult to get Inter to consider sanctioning his departure.
