Liverpool reportedly closing in on £44m midfielder likened to Frenkie de Jong, he's 'one of the best'

Liverpool have a fair bit of work to do to bolster their midfield over the next two transfer windows amid expiring contracts and ageing legs.

Jude Bellingham is obviously the Reds’ top transfer target in the middle of the park. However, he’s not the only target by any means.

Liverpool have been linked with several other midfielders, both for a January transfer and at the end of the season.

Regarding the latter, one report has been doing the rounds suggesting the Reds are closing in on a top midfield talent.

According to The Telegraph, Liverpool are set to agree a £44m deal with Wolves to sign Matheus Nunes in the summer.

The 24-year-old, who played for Sporting CP, was on the Reds’ radar last summer along with Manchester City.

However, he opted to join the Molineux outfit instead.

At Wolves, he has made 16 appearances this term including 14 in the Premier League.

Nunes made two appearances for Sporting at the start of the season before leaving Portugal.

As per FIFA rules, a player can only play competitively for two clubs in a single season.

Therefore, it makes sense as to why Liverpool would be wanting to strike a deal ahead of the 2023-24 campaign.

And if the reports are true, the Reds would be landing a top talent.

‘One of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe’

Nunes initially struggled at Wolves, but is beginning to find form under Julen Lopetegui.

Against Aston Villa, he lined up a double pivot in Lopetegui’s 4-2-3-1, operating as the left-sided midfielder next to Ruben Neves.

He delivered an outstanding display as Wolves secured a point at Villa Park.

The Birmingham Mail gave him an 8.5 out of 10 rating.

“Aside from the last 15 minutes, when Wolves lost their rhythm, Matheus was the best player on the pitch,” they wrote.

“He controlled the tempo of the match and showed why he is one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe.”

And many fans will remember what Pep Guardiola said about Nunes earlier this year. It was very high praise indeed.

“Matheus Nunes is one of the best players in the world today,” he said after Manchester City beat Sporting 5-0 in the Champions League.

“Despite the difficulties and some mistakes, I have to be very satisfied because we took a big step towards the next round.

“Nunes is one of the best at the moment.”

All in all, Nunes seems a great shout for Liverpool.