Speaking ahead of a possible move to Liverpool, Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Alex Teixeira expressed his desire to move to Merseyside this January.
Teixeira has been subject of a £24 million bid from Liverpool already this month, with Reds CEO Ian Ayre pushing to secure a deal before the end of the January transfer window.
Shakhtar have so far stood steadfast, holding out for a fee closer to £38 million, but Teixeira has publicly courted a switch to Anfield.
According to a video published by AnfieldHQ, Teixeira told NBC reporter Stefano Fusaro “it would be an honour” to play for the club.
“The team received one official offer from Liverpool,” he reportedly explained.
“It was rejected; I don’t know why, it was a great offer.
“It is frustrating, but the manager and club president decided against it.
“So now I’m just waiting, trying to be patient.”
When asked whether Liverpool was his priority destination this January, following reports linking him with Chelsea, Teixeira reinforced his ambition.
“It is a huge club, so many great players have passed through here,” he said.
“It would be an honour to defend the Liverpool shirt.”
Teixeira later stressed that “my agent is still attempting everything possible to help me get to Liverpool.”
This puts Liverpool and supporters hoping for a January move in a difficult position, with Teixeira’s posturing similar to that of Raheem Sterling in the summer.
Sterling, with the help of his agent, Aidy Ward, forced through a move to Manchester City, making it clear that he didn’t wish to play for the Reds again.
For Shakhtar, Teixeira’s stance may force their hand, as with the Brazilian openly seeking a move to Liverpool, they must now decide whether to cut their losses or risk holding on to an unhappy player.
Asked if he is confident of securing a move this January, Teixeira said “I can only hope.”
Liverpool supporters may just feel the same way.
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