12 hours ago
38
Casemiro has declared that Rodrygo possesses the potential to become one of soccer's elite talents, with Liverpool reportedly making progress in discussions with the Real Madrid star's representatives.
The Manchester United midfielder spent three seasons alongside the winger in Spain and was ideally placed to assess the levels his fellow Brazilian could achieve. The 24-year-old has cemented his status as a crucial figure for Los Blancos in recent campaigns but experienced a reduction in his role last term under Carlo Ancelotti following Kylian Mbappe's arrival.
He featured from the start in merely 22 league fixtures, whilst receiving only 92 minutes during Madrid's FIFA Club World Cup campaign earlier this month.
His limited playing time has sparked questions about his future, with Arsenal and Liverpool both reportedly monitoring the attacker.
Earlier this year, Casemiro, who enjoyed a nine-year stint with Madrid, heaped praise on Mbappe and his former colleagues, including Rodrygo.
Speaking to Diario AS, the Brazilian maintained that whilst the Frenchman has the capability to be the planet's finest, it's a distinction in football that the 24-year-old could equally achieve.
"He [Mbappe] is one of those players that when you play against them you don't know how to stop him. He's not [on top of] the podium yet, but he'll get there," Casemiro said.
"He's the heir to [Messi and Ronaldo], along with Vinicius Jr, who continues to grow and improve in every game, Rodrygo, and Fede Valverde."
He had previously lauded the winger in 2022, stating: "He lit up my eyes.
"He's a star. God gave him the gift of playing football. Rodrygo knows when to attack, when to defend, when to be more aggressive, when to play more vertically. This kid is one of the most complete players of his generation."
Amid rumours suggesting Luis Diaz is set to leave Anfield, with Bayern Munich showing interest in the Colombian, reports suggest that the Reds are ready to swoop for Rodrygo, initiating talks with his representatives, as per Foot Mercato.
The French outlet reports that discussions have kicked off between Liverpool's top brass and Rodrygo's team to explore the potential of a transfer after six years in Spain.
While no direct contact has been made with Madrid, it's said that the winger's preferred destination is England.
The Gunners are also reportedly keen on pursuing Rodrygo, despite already signing wide player Noni Madueke. A third Premier League club has reportedly entered the fray, with Tottenham Hotspur looking to entice the Brazilian to north London.
English (US) ·