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It is nearly impossible for a transfer to take place without someone, somewhere breaking news of it far before it takes place. Almost all of the deals in recent memory have had Liverpool's interest reported far ahead of time; Mario Balotelli last summer was as close as it comes to a "surprise" signing, and that was only a revelation because of comments Brendan Rodgers had made weeks earlier indicating that the Italian striker was not a player they would be looking to bring into the squad. Even after coming into the squad he was barely in the squad, as it turned out, but still, surprises aren't done well in the transfer window.
Liverpool supporters will be hoping that there's still a place for secrets, however, as reports out of England have the club denying and distancing themselves from any interest in Inter Milan's Mateo Kovacic. None of those connected to the club have made any reference to the talented midfield other than to say that there is absolutely nothing to reference, as Liverpool have not made a bid and might not even be sure if Kovacic is a player that exists.
The press in Italy and Croatia have been far more positive about a deal taking place, however, with reports in the last 24 hours from both that Liverpool have had an improved bid accepted. Gazzetta dello Sport indicate that, after two earlier bids were turned down--bids that were denied by anyone and everyone back in England--Liverpool returned with an offer of €23m (just over £16.6m) that sealed the deal.
It would be supremely unlikely that a deal would be completed without anyone reputable in Liverpool or England reporting something first, leaving supporters scratching their heads as to what's actually going on. Add to this speculation that the club had scouts present to watch Kovacic take on Italy on Friday evening, in which he played 90 minutes before being taken off.
As was the case before, it would be most excellent if Liverpool's interest and accepted bid were reality, and if they're not, they should be, especially at the prices being quoted. He's a potentially world-class talent, and someone that would undoubtedly improve Liverpool's squad.
Which is to say that a surprise here would be more than welcome.
