Liverpool look all set to win the race for Hoffenheim 1889 midfielder Roberto Firmino despite making a late entrance.
According to Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte, the Reds are strong favorites to secure the services of 23-year-old Brazil International this summer after hijacking Manchester United’s deal in 11th hour last week.
The attacking midfielder is also a target for Manchester City and Arsenal.
Brendan Rodgers is a big admirer of Firmino’s ability to play all across the frontline and views him as a potential replacement of Raheem Sterling, who is expected to leave Anfield this summer.
The Reds are reportedly close to agreeing a £17.8million five-year deal for the midfielder.
The deal is expected to complete as soon as the player returns from Copa America, underway in Chile.
Firmino enjoyed a decent last season at Hoffenheim, having scored seven goals and made 10 assists in 33 appearances in club’s eight-placed finish in Bundesliga.
He has scored 49 goals in 153 games for Hoffenheim since joining the club from Figueirense in 2011. He has two years left on his current deal with German club.
The midfielder has earned nine Brazil caps since making his full debut in November last year – scoring four goals.
Firmino scored early in the second-half in Brazil’s 2-1 win over Venezuela on Saturday as the Seleçao sealed berth in Copa America quarter-finals.
The Brazilian could become Liverpool’s fifth signing this summer after Danny Ings, James Milner, Adam Bogdan and Joe Gomez.
