Liverpool close in On Illarramendi

Liverpool are close to make their fifth signing of the summer as they are lining up £16m bid for Real Madrid midfielder Asier Illarramendi and reports suggest that Rafa Benitez will allow him to leave this summer.

Brendan Rodgers has brought in Danny Ings, Adam Bodgan, James Milner and Joe Gomez before the summer transfer window and now he has aimed Real Madrid defensive midfielder.

Liverpool are on the lookout for a central midfielder to replace Gerrard, who is leaving for MLS side LA Galaxy at the end of the season.

Illaramendi is clearly struggling to get regular first team football due to the likes of Toni Kroos in the side. He was signed for 34m pounds, which was not explainable at that time but has failed to solidify a first team spot. He is an Alonso-esque player and could really boost Liverpool’s midfield.

Illarramendi made over 50 apps for the Spanish giants with only 2 goals scored.The defensive midfielder has only started seven games in La Liga this season.

Liverpool’s boss Brendan Rodgers is a big fan of 24 year old star and he is confident that he will be able to lure him to Anfield for next season.