LIVERPOOL are reportedly ready to trigger a £21.5million release clause to sign Julian Brandt this summer – but face competition from Juventus.
It is understood the Reds have been keeping a close eye on the Bayer Leverkusen winger, who has racked up seven goals and 14 assists this season.
Brandt, 22, signed a new deal at the BayArena just 12 months ago, keeping him under contract until 2021.
But according to Bild, the relatively cheap £21.5m release clause will come into effect if Leverkusen fail to qualify for the Champions League.
They are currently eighth in the Bundesliga, seven points adrift of Eintracht Frankfurt in fourth.
Liverpool attempted to sign Brandt in 2017 as they looked to bolster their attack but – with regular football not a guarantee at Anfield – he decided to stay put to maximise his chances of playing at the World Cup.
In the end, the breakdown of the move worked for both parties: Brandt came off the bench in all three of Germany’s dismal campaign in Russia while Liverpool signed Mohamed Salah for £34.3m.
However, signing for Liverpool now looks to be a far more appealing proposition with a Champions League final and a genuine title challenge over the last two seasons.
And while he is unlikely to be a regular starter should he make the switch to Anfield this summer, Brandt would surely be an incredibly useful asset for fellow German Jurgen Klopp.
But although Liverpool look to be near the front of the queue, reports suggest they would face competition from Juventus for Brandt’s signature.
The Italian giants would no doubt jump at the chance to bag another bargain, after signing Aaron Ramsey from Arsenal for free.
Real Madrid have also been rumoured to be interested but the club and their supporters will no doubt be desperate for a marquee signing this summer, such as Eden Hazard.
