Liverpool ‘Have Been in Contact’ to Sign £21.3m La Liga Forward – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Step Up Interest in La Liga Starlet as Transfer Strategy Evolves

Liverpool’s aggressive transfer strategy under Arne Slot continues to gather pace with the club now reportedly making formal contact over a deal for Real Betis forward Jesús Rodríguez. The 19-year-old has attracted significant attention after an eye-catching debut season in La Liga, and Liverpool appear ready to rival Aston Villa in pursuit of the highly rated teenager.

This update, originally reported by ABC Sevilla, suggests that Liverpool’s interest is more than just exploratory, and comes amid a summer of rapid squad evolution at Anfield.

Rising Star in Spain Drawing Premier League Eyes

Rodríguez burst onto the scene at Real Betis after making his senior debut in October under Manuel Pellegrini. In a season where many young players falter, Rodríguez delivered consistency and quality. He ended the campaign with five goals and four assists, a return that has prompted elite clubs across Europe to take notice.

Liverpool’s scouts have reportedly tracked him for months, with sources in Spain confirming that “Liverpool and Aston Villa are both keen on the 19-year-old, and both clubs have been in contact to sign [him].”

Photo: IMAGO

While Aston Villa are said to be in direct negotiations with Betis, ABC confirms that the Merseyside giants have initiated talks with Rodríguez’s agents. With a release clause of just €25/£21.3m, it is not hard to see why the teenager has become one of the most watched talents in La Liga.

Slot’s Tactical Influence on Transfer Activity

Arne Slot’s arrival has clearly invigorated Liverpool’s recruitment team. Fresh from winning the Premier League title in his debut season, the Dutchman is reshaping the squad with youthful talent that fits his attacking and high-energy system.

Jeremie Frimpong and Armin Pecsi have already signed, and deals for Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez are said to be done. Meanwhile, Hugo Ekitike and Benjamin Sesko remain on the radar.

The club are also prepared to go big if needed. As journalist Ben Jacobs stated, “Liverpool are ready to shatter the British transfer record for a second time in quick succession as they remain determined to sign Isak if he is genuinely available.” A bid of over £100 million plus add-ons is reportedly being considered for the Newcastle United striker.

Photo: IMAGO

But alongside the blockbuster deals, there appears to be a clear emphasis on younger, more developmental signings. Rodríguez falls into this category – a player whose ceiling remains high and whose technical attributes suit the modern game.

Rodríguez’s Potential Under Liverpool’s Guidance

Rodríguez has all the markers of a top Premier League attacker. Intelligent movement, composure in front of goal, and an ability to operate across the frontline make him a tactically flexible option.

His €25 million release clause represents a relatively low-risk investment in the current market, especially considering the long-term upside. With the right coaching and patience, Rodríguez could thrive under Slot’s philosophy.

Should Liverpool secure his signature, they would be acquiring a player capable of impacting the squad now while being moulded into a future star. With elite competition circling, acting swiftly may be critical.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The links to Jesús Rodríguez feel like a statement of intent and strategy. Not every move needs to be a headline-breaking transfer, especially when Slot has shown his ability to develop young talent in systems that reward technical and mental sharpness.

Rodríguez ticks a lot of boxes. He’s versatile, hungry, and has already proven himself in a top European league. With five goals and four assists in limited minutes, he’s producing numbers that hint at significant potential.

At €25 million, it feels like a calculated move rather than a punt. Given the scouting presence Liverpool had around him and the growing interest from clubs like Aston Villa, this might be a smart moment to strike. Fans will also be watching closely to see how Slot integrates these prospects – and after a title-winning start, there’s plenty of faith that he knows what he’s doing.

If Rodríguez comes in, expect excitement but not immediate pressure. Letting him grow in a competitive environment might be the key to unearthing Liverpool’s next frontline gem.