Liverpool made a genuine attempt to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in the summer transfer window, but the deal didn’t materialise.
Manager Arne Slot was keen to sign a new number six, as he felt Wataru Endo was not suited to his plans.
The club will be looking to bring in a top-quality central midfielder for Liverpool, but the opportunity to sign Zubimendi may have passed.
Liverpool are looking at other options and have earmarked Benfica midfielder Orkun Kokcu as a potential target.
What Kokcu has said about Slot recently
Portuguese newspaper Record recently reported that Liverpool scouts have made frequent visits to Portugal to watch Kokcu in action, and they are fairly impressed.
The 23-year-old has been outstanding for Benfica this season, and he is someone Slot knows very well, as the pair worked together at Feyenoord.
Kokcu admitted that Slot is the best coach in the world and said that the Dutchman has played a massive role in his career.
Edwards will be thrilled by Kokcu’s performance for Turkey
Kokcu started for Turkey against Wales in the Nations League on Saturday night, and he produced a strong performance.
He maintained 94 percent passing accuracy and attempted two key passes. The Turkish midfielder also won four out of nine duels and had one of his efforts on target blocked.
The versatile midfielder can operate in several midfield roles and could be a fantastic signing for the Reds.
