Two old European rivals will lock horns once again except this time, it will be OFF the pitch. That's right, Liverpool have boldly challenged Real Madrid in the transfer market and it's a battle which could catch the eyes of many as summer steadily approaches...
Liverpool prepared to hijack move for €60m Real Madrid transfer target
According to Fichajes, Liverpool are preparing a bid to sign Real Sociedad winger Takefusa Kubo. The Japan international has also been linked with a move back to Real Madrid, having spent three years trying to make it into the starting lineup but only being sent out on loan.
Since leaving Real Madrid, Kubo has emerged into one of the best La Liga wingers, hence why Real Madrid would like to re-sign him. However, having only signed a contract extension with Real Sociedad at the beginning of this calendar year, Sociedad are understandably in no rush to sell him, so the price has to be right. According to the report, a €60m offer could land Kubo's services.
From Liverpool's perspective, they are thinking of their future by signing Kubo. It is believed that he would make a great replacement for Mohamed Salah, who is both linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League in the summer and ageing.
Kubo has made 24 La Liga appearances this season, scoring seven goals and providing three assists. While there is still work to be done in terms of his productivity, his impact on the pitch is visible to even to the untrained eye. He has the ability to turn around matches with his impressive dribbling ability and speed, hence why he is the target of two of Europe's biggest clubs.
Kubo has the choice of two excellent attacking teams. Given what he has produced at Real Sociedad, it is frightening to think about what he could produce for a team which focuses its tactics on a rampant attacking plan - Something which Liverpool AND Real Madrid have both prided themselves on in recent years.
Liverpool appear to be moving quick, having already prepared their offer. Therefore, the next few weeks from Real Madrid's perspective will be deciding whether they are serious about returning Takefusa Kubo to his boyhood surroundings. He has a lot of strong pull factors but with Kylian Mbappe expected to arrive and Endrick arriving, he may become surplus to requirements.
Do you think Real Madrid should re-sign Takefusa Kubo?