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As was all but inevitable, fresh rumors have resurfaced surrounding the move of out-of-favor Real Madrid defensive midfielder Asier Illarramendi to Anfield. The source, Metro, is far from reputable, so naturally this news should be taken with a heavy dose of skepticism.
Citing a Spanish source, Metro is reporting that Liverpool are set to up their initial bid from £10M to £13.8M (or €20M) in order to secure the services of Illarramendi. It also reports that Brendan Rodgers has been trying to sign the midfielder since the winter transfer window.
If true, it would be encouraging to know that defensive midfielders are a thing that Rodgers is aware of, and something he'd actually enjoy bringing to Merseyside. Certainly, an actually defensive midfielder who can defensive midfield in Lucas's absence has been a need for some time.
Of course, there is the distinct possibility that brining in a fullback and defensive mid in one transfer window could bring about the apocalypse. So there's that.
Question marks about the sources and end times aside, there's also the matter of whether Liverpool are willing or able to commit more money after the significant outlays for Firmino, Benteke, and Clyne so far this summer. Also, two weeks ago The Echo indicated that Madrid would be unwilling to sell until they've found a suitable replacement.
Illarramendi would be a great cherry on top of an otherwise very solid transfer window so far, but it seems like there are too many factors working against this deal to take it seriously at the moment.
