Lecce defender Patrick Dorgu says the interest being shown in him by Liverpool and Manchester City will give him the extra “motivation” to perform well.
The Denmark Under 21 international was handed his senior debut at the start of the season, with his performances being watched by Premier League clubs. When asked by Ekstra Bladet (quotes via Sport Witness) whether he was flattered by the links, Dorgu replied:
“I really just take it as motivation, that when the big teams look at me, it is because I am doing the right thing and must continue. Then it’s just a matter of time before the big teams come knocking.”
It does appear that Dorgu is encouraging interest from Liverpool but it should be pointed out that, in the same interview, the teenager stated that his “dream” is to play for Chelsea, having been a fan of the Blues since he was 8.
At the moment, there is no indication that Mauricio Pochettino’s side are pursuing the left-back but, considering their focus on signing young players, it’s likely that the teenager is on their radar as well.
Liverpool have been tracking Dorgu for a while
Back in July, before the Dane had made his first senior appearance, the defender’s agent Kingsley Ogbodo spoke about Dorgu’s future. He confirmed the Reds, City and Barcelona had watched the youngster and that a bid from the Reds was very possible:
“They haven’t made any [formal] offers. But Liverpool are very likely to make one. I don’t know if that will happen, but they are interested and they like the player.”
The fullback is turning heads in Italy
Dorgu came on as a substitute in the Coppa Italia on his debut and provided the assist for Lecce’s winning goal. The 18-year-old has made 5 league appearances since then, and he has yet to be on the losing side.
It’s, therefore, inevitable that Liverpool will have even more competition for Dorgu’s signature in the near future.
Watch a Liverpool and Everton Q&A about the Reds’ possible title challenge on Shots! TV