Liverpool could be among four teams vying to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti, according to L’Equipe.

The French publication claim that Atletico Madrid and Al-Hilal want to sign the player but they are aware of at least two unnamed Premier League teams who have registered an interest too; one of which may be Jurgen Klopp’s side.

Verratti is said to be open to joining Atletico due to the presence of manager Diego Simeone, but he has already rejected a lucrative offer to join Al-Hilal. L’Equipe don’t make any claims about whether the 30-year-old would consider a switch to England.

Any move could, though, be scuppered by the Italian’s asking price, which currently stands at €80m (£69m). Atletico are reportedly only prepared to pay half that amount and, with PSG expected to maintain their tough stance, due to the player having three years left on his contract, a move away from the Parc des Prince doesn’t seem that likely.

Verratti has a big fan in Pep Guardiola

The midfielder, who has been capped 55 times by his country, has had a trophy-laden career. In addition to winning Euro 2020 with Italy, he has won nine league titles and 21 cup competitions at PSG. He also received praise for his ability from the likes of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who said in 2021:

“I’m in love with him. He is exceptional. Even under pressure, he manages to find those passes that allow the midfield to be free. He’s not a player for long passes but you can always count on him to build the game. We managed to control him better in the second half but in the first half he was really exceptional.”

Liverpool don’t usually sign players like Verratti

Even though the potential departures of captain Jordan Henderson and Fabinho may require the Reds to bring in an experienced player to replace them, the fact that Verratti turns 31 in November makes him an unlikely target.

In addition to the fact that PSG are demanding a huge transfer fee, it’s probably wise that fans don’t get too excited by this rumour.