Liverpool lead Gabri Veiga race

Liverpool are leading the race for Celta de Vigo central midfielder Gabri Veiga, according to The Transfer Room. The report has claimed that Chelsea were looking to sign the 21-year-old, but the Blues are now backing away from a potential deal and Liverpool are now in the lead.

However, there is still competition for the Reds. Newcastle United and Manchester United are closely monitoring the future of Veiga. The report has claimed that the youngster has a release clause of €40 million (£34.40 million) in his contract at Celta, which Liverpool are not willing to pay.

Veiga made 28 starts and eight substitute appearances in La Liga for Celta last season. The midfielder scored 11 goals and gave four assists in those games. Celta finished 13th in the La Liga table last season with 43 points fro 38 matches, just three points above the relegation zone.