Julian Ward already eyeing his next Luis Diaz for Liverpool; his qualities 'please' FSG - report

Liverpool are weighing up a possible move for Porto midfielder Otavio in the summer, according to a transfer rumour which has emerged.

The 27-year-old has once again flourished for Porto this season, registering 11 assists in 25 Primeira Liga starts, also chipping in with three goals.

Otavio was team-mates with Luis Diaz prior to the Colombian’s move to Liverpool in January, and he came up against the Reds in the Champions League earlier this season.

Speculation is now surrounding his future ahead of the summer transfer window, and it could be that Liverpool once again look to snap up a gem from Porto after Julian Ward’s move for the Colombia winger.

According to A Bola [via Sport Witness], new transfer guru Ward is not done ‘shopping at the Dragons’ after Diaz and has ‘referenced’ Otavio regarding a potential move. His characteristics as a player are thought to ‘please’ FSG.

Paris Saint-Germain are also keen on signing the attacking midfielder, whose current deal expires in the summer of 2025 and, according to A Bola [via Daily Mail], contains a release clause of €60m (£50m).

While Liverpool’s squad looks as good as it has been in the Premier League era, midfield appears to be the main area to focus upon this summer.

James Milner, Jordan Henderson and Thiago are all at the veteran stages of their career, while there is no guarantee that the likes of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita will be at Anfield beyond the expiry of their contracts in 2023.

Otavio could bring a sprinkling of magic to Liverpool’s midfield, as highlighted by his assists tally – he has set up 61 goals for Porto overall – coming in at peak age and hitting the ground running immediately.

He can play centrally or out wide, often being deployed on