In a recent print edition, Correia De Manha has claimed that Liverpool are keeping a keen eye on Sporting CP left-back Nuno Mendes who has a release clause of €45m. It is understood that the Reds could face competition from Manchester United, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan in pursuit of the Portuguese defender during the January transfer window (translated by The Daily Express).
Mendes’ Sensational Rise In Portugal Recently
Mendes has successfully managed to make himself a regular starter at the José Alvalade Stadium this season and has done well to put in a run of impressive performances down the left flank. The 18-year-old has made 12 appearances for the Portuguese giants this term, registering one goal and one assist in all competitions.
The promising teenager has caught the eye by averaging 1.8 tackles, 3.1 interceptions, 1.0 clearances, 0.6 shots, 0.9 key passes, 1.6 crosses and 1.3 dribbles per game in the Liga NOS this season. He has also been quite tidy with his ball-distribution after making 82.3% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
The early signs have been quite encouraging from Mendes, so a world-class manager like Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp would fancy his chances of getting the best out of him in the years to come. However, he is quite a raw and inexperienced full-back, so he might need time to settle into English football if the Reds can find a way to land him this winter.
What Will The Portuguese Starlet Bring To The Table?
Mendes possesses electric pace under his belt that helps him to make some penetrative sprints with the ball on the left-wing. He has established himself as a capable defender at the back as he is proficient at timing his challenges well to earn possession back for his team.
The Portuguese whizkid is a hard-working dribbler who can deliver some pinpoint crosses into the opposition penalty box. He is primarily a left-sided full-back but is versatile enough to fill in as a centre-back if needed.
Should The Reds Move In For Mendes In January?
Currently, Andrew Robertson is Liverpool’s undisputed number one choice for the left-back position while Konstantinos Tsimikas is filling in as his understudy at Anfield. However, the Greek defender has struggled to remain fit and has often flattered to deceive with his performances since arriving earlier this year.
If Klopp wants to add some serious challenge for Robertson and also get some cover for his centre-back positions, then he should consider going in with a bid for Mendes when the transfer window commences at the start of next month. At 18, Mendes is a player on the rise and would be a perfect long-term back-up for Robertson at the Merseyside club in the coming seasons.
