Liverpool have reportedly opened talks with Serie B side Brescia over the potential signing of midfielder Sandro Tonali.
The 18-year-old has been outstanding in the second tier of Italian football, and attracting the attention of a couple of European clubs as a result.
He is dubbed the ‘new Andrea Pirlo,’ the youngster resembles the Italy legend in both playing style and appearance.
Tonali has two goals and three assists for Brescia so far this campaign, and has already been involved with the senior Italy squad.
Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport reports of Liverpool’s interest, with one reporter confirming the Reds have had scouts placed at Serie B matches to watch the teenager.
It is reported that Brescia will demand £30million for the Italian, which would represent a big fee for an unproven talent.
Brescia owner Massimo Cellino, who had a controversial time in charge of Leeds United previously – also revealed Liverpool had been in touch.
He told newspaper Corriere dello Sport : ‘Yes, Roma have asked me about Tonali. I’ve talked about him to [Roma director Mauro] Baldissoni several times, but I want to keep the lad as long as possible.
‘Is he ready? I don’t know, he’s 18. But Liverpool also contacted me a little while ago.’
Upon his first international call-up in November, Italy manager Roberto Mancini labelled the midfielder ‘incredibly gifted.’
‘I want to stress again that he’s incredibly gifted and has clear margins for growth. I’ll get to know him better over the next few days,’ the former Manchester City boss told reporters at Italy’s training base.
