Transfers
Liverpool eye versatile Atletico star as Chelsea and Man City join the chase
Liverpool are monitoring Atletico Madrid midfielder Marcos Llorente as his contract runs down, with Chelsea and Manchester City also assessing the 31‑year‑old, an exclusive report confirms.
Contract situation creates urgency
Llorente’s deal at Atletico Madrid expires next summer, and the Spanish club are already in talks to offer fresh terms. The club’s confidence that a new agreement can be reached is described as "huge" by sources.
Why English clubs are interested
The former Spain international stepped away from the national team after their World Cup triumph in America over the summer and is now weighing his next move. His ability to play both right‑back and central midfield, combined with more than 300 appearances for Atletico, makes him an attractive option for clubs needing tactical flexibility.
Llorente, who joined Atletico from Real Madrid in 2019 for around £30 million, became a regular after Zinedine Zidane could not guarantee him first‑team football. He has since been described as one of LaLiga’s most versatile and consistent performers and a genuine Atletico legend.
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Premier League clubs’ perspectives
Liverpool and Chelsea are reviewing their right‑back and midfield options ahead of 2027, seeing Llorente’s experience as a major draw despite his age – he turns 32 in January. Manchester City, after losing several experienced players, view him as an intriguing addition for Enzo Maresca’s squad.
TEAMtalk notes that Llorente’s age is not a significant barrier for the interested clubs; his high‑level experience is considered a key attraction.
Beyond England, Bayern Munich and Barcelona are also reported to be watching the situation, underscoring the broad European interest.
Atletico remain determined to secure Llorente’s future, confident he wishes to finish his career in the Spanish capital. The final decision will hinge on whether the club can convert its confidence into a contract and persuade the player to stay, or if the growing interest forces a move abroad.