Liverpool are monitoring Bournemouth attacker Rayan, but any attempt to sign the highly rated 20-year-old could cost as much as £130 million.
The Brazilian’s contract contains a release clause for that amount, meaning Liverpool would have to meet the full valuation if they decide to pursue a deal in January or a later transfer window.
Liverpool face £130m Rayan decision
Liverpool have already added Victor Munoz and Bradley Barcola this summer, yet they are understood to be considering further reinforcements in the wide areas. The club are particularly short of a specialist right-sided attacker following Mohamed Salah’s departure.
Rayan has impressed since joining Bournemouth and is regarded as a player capable of making the step up to a bigger club. Liverpool’s interest reflects the belief that he could provide an option in attack while continuing his development at the highest level.
However, the size of the release clause presents a significant obstacle. There is also expected to be competition for the forward, with several clubs said to be monitoring his progress.
Bruno Andrade, an ESPN Brasil journalist, said clubs were keen to move early because of Rayan’s performances and the fear of missing out on him.
“The idea in the European market is that people or clubs want to get ahead of the game because Rayan has been playing incredibly well,” Andrade said.
“Clubs have the perception that whoever doesn’t get ahead will be left behind and miss out on the player. So they want to act in advance.”
Andrade added that Bournemouth would not reduce their demands for the player.
“The message is clear, obvious, and there won’t be a discount of even one cent,” he said. “Whoever wants to sign Rayan in January, whether from the Premier League or another European club, has to pay the value of the clause.”
He continued: “There won’t be a discount, there won’t be a lower payment. It’s either that (£130m) or the player stays.”
Liverpool will therefore have to decide whether Rayan is worth triggering the substantial clause, while also convincing the attacker that Anfield is the right destination for his ambitions.
Rayan is expected to want a move to a top club capable of competing for major trophies. Liverpool, who are looking to respond strongly after a disappointing season last year, will need to show that they can offer him that opportunity.
