Liverpool lead Barcelona in race for Brazil midfielder

Liverpool are reportedly ahead of Barcelona in the race to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson.

A defensive-minded midfielder is on the Reds’ radar ahead of the January transfer window, as Arne Slot looks to tighten up his faltering side.

The Premier League champions have conceded 20 goals in the league this season, the joint-most of any team in the top half.

Alongside interest in adding a centre-back, with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi still on the club’s wish-list, Liverpool are looking at midfield options to support Ryan Gravenberch.

Ederson is a player under consideration and Spanish outlet Fichajes claim that Liverpool are ahead of Barcelona in the race to sign the 26-year-old.

Atalanta are understood to be open to the player’s exit for the right fee, with Liverpool hopeful a deal could be done for around €40m (£35m).

Ederson had been a priority for Barcelona but the player’s price tag and Liverpool’s superior financial position could see the Catalans divert to alternatives.

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