Liverpool can take advantage of 'impossible' situation as Riccardo Calafiori transfer edges closer

Liverpool may have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori.

The 22-year-old has been linked with a move to Anfield in recent weeks and he is thought fit the profile of desired defenders that Liverpool initially looked at last summer. The Reds have enquired about the defender but face tough competition.

Calafiori has caught the eye of other clubs including Tottenham, Arsenal and Juventus with his performances for Italy in the European Championships. His versatility to play at centre-back or left-back also ticks many boxes.

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Bologna meanwhile, had been determined to keep their defender but feel that it will 'almost be impossible' claims Fabrizio Romano. The Italian side 'anticipate big proposals' for Calafiori 'soon.'

He adds that Juventus have had the 'green light' from the player's side since May but no agreement has been reached with Bologna. Elsewhere, Gazetta dello Sport states that the Italian side will demand a £42million (€50m) fee including bonuses.

Sporting director Marco Di Vaio, who played a key role in signing the defender last summer, said of the interest: "It is confirmation that Bologna is working well and doing the right things. It is not a surprise to us.

"We know Calafiori well and we have been following him for years. The European Championships will have a significant boost on his value but the intention is to keep all of our players."

If a transfer was to materialise, it is claimed that former club Basel would be entitled to a 40 per cent sell-on fee.