Liverpool Transfer News: Latest on Lazar Markovic and Fabio Borini Exit Rumours

Liverpool winger Lazar Markovic is poised to join Fenerbahce on loan for the rest of the season, with the Reds keen for the Serbian to get some regular game time.

According to Andy Hunter of the Guardian, the two sides have already agreed terms over a possible deal, with the temporary switch reportedly close to being finalised. As noted in the piece, Markovic will become the fourth of nine players signed by Liverpool last summer to have left a year on from their acquisitions.

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However, Hunter also wrote that Liverpool still feel as though Markovic has a long-term future at Anfield and as such, there will be no option to buy for the Turkish giants at the end of his loan stint.

Nevertheless, Sachin Nakrani of the Guardian remains unconvinced by the £20 million man:

There were certainly flashes of raw potential in Markovic’s first season on Merseyside. The ex-Benfica man is a very technically gifted player, who marries silky dribbling and an eye for a pass with an admirable industry. He also showcased his versatility at times during the 2014-15 season, fulfilling various tactical duties, including a spell at right wing-back.

For that reason, it’s a surprise to see him leave Liverpool for the upcoming term. Bleacher Report’s Sam Tighe thinks the youngster would have done a fine job for a lot of teams in England’s top flight:

But there have been some issues too. According to Dominic King of the Daily Mail, Markovic has found it tough to settle in Merseyside and has also had problems adjusting to the abrasive nature of English football.

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A spell in Turkey will certainly be a litmus test for the young midfielder’s temperament. The Super Lig is played at a frantic pace and before a backdrop of fervent fans. Liverpool will hope Markovic emerges as a much more battle-hardened player come the end of his loan spell and be in a better position to make an impact for the Reds next season.

Fabio Borini Edging Towards Watford

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One player who certainly doesn’t have a long-term future at Anfield is Fabio Borini, and he looks set to join Premier League new boys Watford.

As reported by David Amoyal, translating for GianlucaDiMarzio.com, the Italian striker has been waiting for Internazionale to make a move for him throughout the summer months, but with the San Siro giants reportedly pursuing other targets, Borini is ready to consider an offer from the Hornets.

The Italian striker joined Liverpool in the first transfer window of Rodgers’ tenure with a glittering reputation, but he’s flattered to deceive in the club’s iconic all red strip. Now with a host of centre-forward options within Liverpool's ranks, it’s undoubtedly the right time for both clubs to part ways.

As noted by BBC Sport’s Steve Wilson, the former Swansea City man is the latest in a long list of Italians who have flopped at Anfield:

Despite Liverpool’s eagerness to sell him previously, Borini has dug his heels in and stuck around. According to James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo, the Reds want to a permanent deal for the forward, but if they can’t a loan transfer will suffice.

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The best spell of football played by Borini in his Premier League career so far was during a loan spell at Sunderland, where he showed if he gets the requisite playing time, he can be a useful option. But he’s not quite up to the standard the Reds require and as such, it’s no surprise he looks set for pastures new.