Liverpool and Manchester United could be set for a major transfer battle over Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha, with fresh reports suggesting both Premier League giants remain keen on the Germany international.
Manchester United have already strengthened their midfield this summer after agreeing deals for Brazilian duo Ederson and Andrey Santos, but the club are still targeting a third central midfielder as Michael Carrick continues reshaping his squad.
Nmecha has emerged as one of United’s leading options following an impressive campaign with Borussia Dortmund and strong performances for Germany at the World Cup. The former Manchester City academy graduate is understood to be open to a return to the Premier League, further increasing his appeal to Old Trafford.
Liverpool, however, remain firmly in the picture.
Former Premier League winner Robert Huth believes the 25-year-old would be an ideal signing for new Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola, praising the midfielder’s ability to thrive in an aggressive pressing system.
“Nmecha was one of the players that kind of stood out in the Germany team,” Huth said.
“He performed well; he kept winning the ball. I think he would suit Liverpool with Iraola as manager.
“I know how he likes the fast-flowing football, the quick turnaround, winning the ball high. Nmecha’s been doing that in the World Cup.”
Nmecha’s statistics support that assessment.
The Borussia Dortmund midfielder ranked highly among Europe’s top midfielders for ball recoveries last season and regularly won possession high up the pitch, qualities considered perfectly suited to Iraola’s high-intensity style of football.
While naturally more of a box-to-box midfielder than a traditional holding player, Nmecha’s athleticism, physicality and ability to quickly transition play have made him an attractive target for several elite clubs.
Borussia Dortmund, though, are unlikely to let him leave cheaply.
Reports in Germany claim the Bundesliga club value Nmecha at around €90 million (£85.3 million), a fee that would make him one of the most expensive midfielders in Europe this summer.
Liverpool are yet to make a formal approach but continue to monitor the situation closely as they assess midfield reinforcements under Iraola.
Manchester United, meanwhile, may be forced to accelerate their plans if they are to beat their Premier League rivals to one of the most highly-rated midfielders available.
With both clubs searching for energy, pressing ability and athleticism in midfield, Nmecha has emerged as one of the standout names to watch during the remainder of the transfer window.
