'Told...' - Neil Jones reacts to Liverpool links to 14-assist midfielder

Liverpool won’t be signing Porto midfielder Otavio this summer despite reports suggesting talks are taking place, reports reliable journalist Neil Jones.

In recent days, the Reds have been linked with a move for the 27-year-old as Jurgen Klopp potentially eyes up another attacking signing.

Otavio has come up against Liverpool in the Champions League and potentially caught their eye, with 14 assists coming his way in all competitions last season.

Indeed, there were even reports that the Reds would make an official bid this week, but Jones’ reaction is a pretty definitive one.

Taking to Twitter, Jones claimed that Liverpool aren’t interested in the summer signing of Otavio:

“Told there’s no truth in reports linking Liverpool with a move for Porto’s Otavio this summer. Not a target and never has been.”

In truth, this was always a rumour that felt like it didn’t have legs, with Otavio’s age immediately meaning he wouldn’t be coming in as a long-term signing.

Liverpool’s approach under Klopp has generally been to sign players in their early to mid-20s and develop them into world-class stars, with Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah perfect examples of that. Hopefully, Darwin Nunez will be the same.

Otavio possesses great ability and could have been a good backup to Salah on the right-hand side – he has registered 62 assists in 237 appearances for Porto – but the money can be spent more effectively moving forward, rather than on someone who is already in their prime.

Source