Victor Munoz delivered a standout performance in Liverpool's behind-closed-doors friendly against Como on Sunday, staking his claim as an alternative to transfer target Bradley Barcola. The 23-year-old Spain international, signed from Osasuna for £34.6m in June, was withdrawn in the 46th minute of the 70-minute encounter at the AXA Training Centre after causing constant problems for Como right-back Ivan Smolcic.
Barcola chase continues
Paris Saint-Germain winger Barcola remains at the top of Liverpool's transfer wishlist, but PSG's £130m valuation is beyond the Reds' estimation. The 23-year-old Frenchman, a two-time Champions League winner, chiefly operates from the left, while a right-winger is arguably more pressing for Andoni Iraola's side.
Munoz, however, has shown he can play on either flank and could provide a solution. His display against Como came as Liverpool played two friendlies against the Italian outfit on Sunday. The first, behind closed doors, ended goalless, while the second at Anfield saw new £60m signing Jeremy Jacquet score an unofficial debut goal in a 2-0 win, with Cody Gakpo also on target.
Curtis Jones transfer update
Meanwhile, Curtis Jones appears destined to leave Liverpool this summer. The 25-year-old midfielder has been a long-term target for Inter Milan, but Liverpool's £34m asking price has proven too steep. Inter have already moved Davide Frattesi to Lazio to free up wages and squad space.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter are now preparing to offload Luis Henrique, formerly of Marseille, with Roma among the clubs interested. Once Henrique is sold, Inter will make a move for Jones. Liverpool are reportedly willing to lower their asking price for the homegrown star, who has 12 months left on his contract and has won the Premier League, FA Cup and two League Cups at Anfield.
