Villareal rejected Liverpool’s January bid for Chukwueze

Several media outlets have reported Liverpool’s interest in Samuel Chukwueze of Villarreal, but according to France Football, the La Liga side rejected an offer of €35 million for his services from the Champions League holders.

The 20-year-old, who prefers to play on the right wing but is fully capable of playing on the left and centrally, behind a striker, has four goals and four assists to his name in 26 games in all competitions for Villarreal this season. His talent has reportedly attracted the interest of Chelsea as well, but Liverpool apparently acted first by submitting an offer as they see him as potential cover for Mohamed Salah, with Xherdan Shaqiri likely to move on in the summer.

However, their bid was rejected simply due to Villarreal not being willing to part with him for anything less than the buyout clause set in his contract, which amounts to €60 million. Chukwueze is is under contract until 2023, but the ‘Yellow Submarine’ are preparing for his potential departure at the end of the season.