Liverpool and Chelsea to battle out for the Real Betis youngster

According to recent reports in the rumor mill, Liverpool and Chelsea are set to lock horns to secure the services of Real Madrid winger Jesus Rodriguez. The Merseysiders are expected to lead the race to secure his signature in the summer transfer window. Close sources to the club indicate that Liverpool are already planning for the possibility of Mohamed Salah’s departure, with contract extension talks stalling. The report read:

Liverpool are among the Premier League clubs closely monitoring Real Betis winger Jesus Rodriguez ahead of the summer transfer window

Jesus Rodrigues has continued to impress fans and pundits alike in the Spanish top flight, contributing significantly to his side’s European and other cup aspirations this season. The player was promoted to the senior team in October 2024 and has already scored three goals and provided four assists in 29 appearances. He also has a goal to his name in La Liga, where he has made eight starts.

With over four years left on his contract, the player would cost at least £42 million, which the club might be willing to pay, given the uncertainty surrounding the futures of Mohamed Salah and Darwin Nunez at the club. It remains to be seen how the transfer pans out, as Chelsea are also reportedly interested in the winger.

What has Arne Slot said to his players ahead of the game?

Ahead of the game against Southampton in the Premier League, Arne Slot has asked his players to approach the next three games as if they were finals. Liverpool could go 12 points clear at the top, and they will also face Paris Saint-Germain with a one-goal lead heading into the second leg. Additionally, they will play Newcastle United in the final on 16th March, which could see Arne Slot winning the first of three trophies. Slot also urged his fans to fill the stadium in numbers. He said:

I have to convince my players that we play three finals, like I said now a few times, and I'm hoping – and that's why I every time come up with the word 'final' – that I influence our fans a bit as well.