Liverpool have been informed they must pay £12 million if they want to acquire the services of 22-year-old midfielder ace Vurnon Anita, after the youngster agreed a new contract at Ajax with a minimum release clause included.
Anita’s new deal will keep him at the club until 2014, but the midfielder’s release clause will leave open the possibility of a switch to a larger European club. Liverpool are keen on acquiring the services of a defensive midfielder, with Alberto Aquilani seemingly intent on a switch away from Anfield.
Anita can operate from a deeper position, often fulfilling the combative role Javier Mascherano once served for the Merseyside club. Since the departure of Mascherano, Liverpool have relied on the tenacity and determination of youngster Jay Spearing – who has fulfilled the role admirably – but Dalglish is now keen to introduce a more proven player in the push for Champions League football next season.
Anita has featured 35 and 45 times in the past two seasons respectively, establishing himself as a vital part of Ajax’s midfield despite his tender age of just 22. Emerging through the club’s famed youth academy, Anita will provide the right combination of mettle and youth that will appeal to Dalglish and the club’s owners.
The Fenway Sports Group are said to be keen on bringing in players that will potentially possess an increased market value with acquisition. In the current climate, £12 million for a young midfielder with international pedigree would potentially prove a great signing.
Anita has featured three times for the Netherlands full international side, but is proven at Under-17, Under-19 and Under-21 levels. With Steven Gerrard finding himself often injured throughout most of last season, Dalglish is keen on bringing in a long-term replacement for the England star.
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