Liverpool have been linked with a potential move for PSG star Marco Verratti - and the midfielder's previous comments about the Red Devils have resurfaced.
Jurgen Klopp's side already have two midfield signings this summer, with Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai both arriving at Anfield.
But there has been further uncertainty in that field, with club captain Jordan Henderson verbally agreeing to sign terms for Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq, according to The Athletic.
And although the two clubs have yet to agree on a fee, Henderson's situation has disrupted the Reds' pre-season tour. Despite traveling with the team to Germany, the 33-year-old did not feature in Wednesday's pre-season friendly against Karlsruher. Advertisement
Meanwhile, Al Ittihad submitted a 40m offer to sign Reds midfielder Fabinho. If both players leave, Liverpool will need to strengthen their forces.
French newspaper L'Equipe has designated Anfield as a possible destination for Verratti, one of European football's best playmakers - and his previous comments about the club have resurfaced.
Verratti comments on the return of Liverpool
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If the Italian does indeed move to Liverpool, he will play in the Premier League for the first time in his career.
At 30, Verratti already has plenty of experience at PSG and the Italy national team, and his arrival will fill the void left by Fabinho and Henderson should they leave. And the midfielder is likely interested in a move to Anfield, if his past comments are to be believed.
Speaking in an interview before the Champions League group stage draw between PSG and Liverpool in September 2018, Verratti explained (via FourFourTwo):
"Against Liverpool, it was good because we won all our games, but Liverpool will be different. They are a very good team at home.
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"They have experience in the Champions League when they reached the final last season.
"It's an important test for us, not decisive but it's good to start with a complicated game."
Liverpool won the match 3-2 at Anfield, with Roberto Firmino's decisive goal in stoppage time. Watching from the stands for his suspension, Verratti's level of respect for the Reds probably rose a notch that night.
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