‘We held talks, but nothing official’ – Liverpool midfielder drops summer transfer hint

Liverpool veteran midfielder Lucas Leiva has revealed that he has held talks with Gremio.

Lucas confirmed that there have been talks although he underlined that the negotiations were ‘nothing official’.

The Brazilian midfielder revealed that he would be open to returning to Gremio but that there are other factors involved in his decision – which he did not delve into.

See More: Liverpool star midfielder offered to Juventus by agents, Reds want £26m

“There was an offer from Gremio in January but I wanted to complete 10 years at Liverpool,” he told Radio Atlantica.

“Now in the window we had a conversation, but nothing official.

“I do not hide my desire to return to Gremio, but there are several factors.”

The latest developments will be a cause for concern as far as Besiktas and Galatasaray are concerned.

Turkish-Football can confirm that both clubs are interested in Lucas and have entered preliminary talks with the experienced midfielder.

Besiktas are keen on strengthening their defensive midfield as they were over reliant on Atiba Hutchinson this season.

Galatasaray would be able to offer higher wages to Lucas but Besiktas will play Champions League group stage football next season.

The Lions meanwhile booked a place in the Europa League after finishing the league in fourth position.

Lucas spent 10 years at Liverpool, making him the longest serving player in the current squad.

The Brazilian midfielder is however, approaching the end of his contract and unless the Reds offer a last minute extension he looks destined to leave as a free agent.