Borussia Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc has seemingly confirmed his side’s interest in signing Liverpool midfielder Emre Can on a free transfer.
Can is heading into the final six months of his contract with the Reds, and will be able agree a pre-contract with clubs outside of England from New Year’s Day.
And after three-and-a-half seasons honing his game at Anfield the 23-year-old is in high demand on the continent.
Juventus are believed to be the front-runners for his signature, but Dortmund have been credited with an interest in securing a deal for one of Germany’s most promising young players.
And addressing Can’s impending availability this week, Zorc hinted at a possible approach from his side, telling Sky Deutschland that “[he is] an excellent player.”
“He is in the sights of the very, very large clubs of Europe,” the 55-year-old explained.
This builds on the comments of Juventus CEO Giuseppe Marotta, who confirmed his side were “monitoring” Can’s progress, speaking to Italian outlet Mediaset Premium.
“Can is a name doing the rounds because his contract is running down,” he said.
“I won’t deny he is a player we too have monitored and many important clubs will try to close a deal over the next few weeks.”
Can has made 21 appearances for the Reds so far this season, including 18 starts, and is back in contention away to Arsenal on Friday after missing Sunday’s 4-0 win at Bournemouth due to suspension.
He has repeatedly stressed his commitment to Liverpool while he remains with the club, but a lack of progress in negotiations suggests he will move on.
Can’s biggest concern regarding an extension on Merseyside is his long-term role under Jurgen Klopp, rather than his potential salary.
And according to Goal‘s Melissa Reddy, Juventus are planning to field Can in his favoured role as No. 6, which is currently occupied by Jordan Henderson at Liverpool.
Furthermore, the Serie A giants are reportedly willing to pay the midfielder in line with their highest earners, with “only Miralem Pjanic, Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain banking more.”
This would no doubt be an attractive offer for Can, who has already played for both Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen in his fledgling career.
Can only turns 24 in January, and with considerable top-level experience to his name already, is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after talents in the market at present.
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