Second Report Confirms Liverpool Interest In £28m Hoffenheim Star, Midfielder Issues Response

Liverpool transfer news
LEVERKUSEN, GERMANY - AUGUST 26: Kerem Demirbay of Hoffenheim runs with the ball during the Bundesliga match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and TSG 1899 Hoffenheim at BayArena on August 26, 2017 in Leverkusen, Germany. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Bongarts/Getty Images)

Liverpool have been linked with Hoffenheim star Kerem Demirbay over recent weeks following Turkish-Football breaking the story that the Reds have been scouting the midfielder.

German publication BILD have followed up with a second report that the Reds watched Demirbay in the recent games against Lyon and Stuttgart.

Per the source, Demirbay himself confirmed Liverpool interest.

“Of course, I can handle that,” Demirbay told Sky Sport in Germany when asked about the rumours of the Reds’ interest.

The midfielder of Turkish origin provided an assist in the 3-3 draw against Lyon in the Champions League.

Demirbay also starred in the 4-0 victory over Stuttgart in the Bundesliga.

The 25-year-old would be competing with the likes of Fabinho, Wijnaldum and Jordan Henderson in a deep-lying midfield role if he were to make the move.

Asked about his favourite position, he said: “I feel very, very well (as a) No.6.
“That’s where I can set the pace for my team.”

Liverpool have a long-standing interest in Demirbay but he has had injury trouble in the recent past and has another four-years left on his contract.

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Demirbay does however, have a £28m release clause which would force Hoffenheim’s hand.

Demirbay represented Turkey at U21 level and was set to play for the senior side before switching allegiances to Germany.

The Germany international has three assists in seven appearances for Hoffenheim this season.