After the Basque midfielder opted to remain with his boyhood club, the Reds have been forced to explore alternative options. However, while several internal solutions to the number six role have been mooted—including Ryan Gravenberch, who excelled in the role in the Premier League opener against Ipswich on Saturday—it's Teun Koopmeiners who is the Reds' top alternative to the Spaniard, according to Tutto Mercato Web.
Now, the 26-year-old Netherlands international has been left out of the squad for Atalanta's opening Serie A match against Lecce on Monday, sparking speculation that a move could be imminent.
The Dutchman, who previously played under Arne Slot at AZ Alkmaar, is not currently training with the Serie A side (as per Alfredo Pedulla), adding further weight to the speculation that he could be on his way out.
Jarrad Branthwaite Everton Liverpool Goodison Park Anfield
Koopmeiners wanted by Juventus
While Koopmeiners isn't so much a like-for-like replacement for Zubimendi, he could nonetheless offer Liverpool a much-needed attacking presence from midfield, an area where the Reds have struggled to contribute goals in recent seasons.
The versatile Atalanta man enjoyed a stellar 2023/24 campaign, scoring 15 goals and providing seven assists in 51 appearances, and has attracted interest from several top clubs.
According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Juventus have tabled a €59 million (£50.3 million) offer for the Dutchman, although he has yet to make a decision on the proposal.
Given that their bid for Zubimendi was reportedly of a similar value, Liverpool are thought to have the financial means to meet Atalanta's asking price.
Should they step in to hijack the Juve deal, Koopmeiners' potential arrival at Anfield would mark a significant addition to the squad, particularly given his proven goal-scoring ability, a quality that could prove invaluable as Liverpool look to challenge on multiple fronts this season.
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