Liverpool have been linked with a big-money move for Inter midfielder Nicolo Barella following a string of impressive performances.

What's the story?

According to Italian outlet La Repubblica, the Reds are preparing a £60 million offer for the 24-year-old machine as they step up their search for Gini Wijnaldum's replacement.

The Italian outfit's poor financial situation is well known, and Liverpool could be looking to take advantage by securing themselves a top player this summer.

Klopp will be elated

Liverpool have been heavily linked with a move for Atletico Madrid dynamo Saul Niguez in recent weeks, but the Spain international now appears to be closing in on a transfer to Barcelona, with Antoine Griezmann moving in the opposite direction.

However, it appears as though the Anfield outfit have already moved on from their efforts to sign Saul, targeting Euro 2020 winner Barella instead.

The diminutive midfielder has excelled since arriving at Inter back in 2019, scoring seven goals and providing 21 assists in 87 appearances for the Nerazzurri, winning the Serie A crown along the way.

His standout performances have earned several plaudits in his homeland, including Claudio Marchisio.

“As an ex-midfielder, I cannot help but admire the constant growth and talent of Nicolò Barella," said Juventus legend Marchisio last season.

“Such a young player, already mature and complete. Inter fans are fortunate, but even more fortunate is our Italy squad."

Therefore, news that Liverpool are lining up a substantial offer for Barella will surely leave Jurgen Klopp feeling elated.

Wijnaldum's decision to join French giants Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer has left a substantial gap in the club's engine room, one that will be extremely difficult to plug.

Having said that, Barella is certainly someone capable of filling the Dutch international's shoes. As per WhoScored, he recorded 1.3 key passes per league game last season, 1.6 tackles and one dribble, placing him in the top three for each metric when compared to his teammates.

Liverpool will be hoping to close the gap on Premier League champions Manchester City next season after finishing a whopping 17 points behind them in 2020/21, and signing Barella would certainly provide a significant boost to their chances of doing just that.

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