Liverpool abandon €60 million pursuit of Barcelona midfielder who is set to sign new contract until 2031

Liverpool abandon €60 million pursuit of Barcelona midfielder who is set to sign new contract until 2031 Liverpool have backed away from their pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Marc Bernal after his growing importance under Hansi Flick made a potential transfer increasingly difficult. According to SPORT , Liverpool had considered a move worth around €60 million for the summer of 2027, with manager Andoni Iraola a strong admirer of the young midfielder.  However, Bernal’s importance at Barcelona has weakened the English club’s chances of securing his signature. Notably, Liverpool had viewed the prospect of offering Bernal more regular playing time as a potential advantage.  With the midfielder now set to receive greater opportunities under Flick, that argument has become less convincing. Why Liverpool cooled their interest in Marc Bernal Liverpool’s interest in Bernal emerged amid Barcelona’s crowded midfield, where competition for places has made regular minutes difficult to guarantee for several players. Liverpool were interested in signing Marc Bernal. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images) Barcelona already have Pedri, Rodri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez competing for midfield positions.  The situation created uncertainty over playing time, attracting interest from clubs across Europe. Liverpool and Atletico Madrid were among the sides linked with Bernal last summer.  However, Liverpool’s interest was particularly notable, as the club had considered offering around €60 million in 2027. Iraola reportedly valued Bernal not only for his ability but also for his potential to develop further.  Liverpool’s plan was to offer him a clearer route to regular football if his opportunities at Barcelona became limited. Marc Bernal will sign a new contract with Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) That scenario has become less likely as Flick has given the midfielder more minutes this season. Barcelona strengthen their position with Bernal contract renewal Bernal’s increasing importance under Flick is not the only obstacle facing Liverpool, as Barcelona have reached an agreement to renew the midfielder’s contract , with the new deal set to run until 2031. As reported before, the agreement includes a €500 million release clause designed to deter potential suitors and protect Barcelona’s position. The formal signing of the contract is expected in the coming days. Notably, the renewal would be a significant statement of confidence in Bernal’s future at the club, making any attempt by Liverpool or any other suitor to secure his services considerably more complicated. For Barcelona, keeping Bernal would help preserve a young midfield option who is already earning greater trust from Flick.