Liverpool Transfer News: Anderson Talisca Battle with Wolves, Fresh Reds Rumours

Wolverhampton Wanderers have emerged as surprise rivals for Liverpool in their pursuit of Benfica midfielder Anderson Talisca after issues over a work permit. 

According to the Sun's Graham Hill, Liverpool are preparing a bid for the £21 million-rated Brazilian but have run into difficulties over a work permit.

Per Hill, it is believed the 22-year-old Talisca would get a work permit more easily if moving to a Championship club, hence Wolves—who are set to be bought by Chinese billionaire Robin Li—have come into the picture.

Superagent Jorge Mendes is dealing with Talisca's Benfica departure and also with Li's takeover of Wolves.

The Midlands club are aiming to return to the Premier League, and current manager Kenny Jackett is set to be replaced by former Porto boss Julen Lopetegui when the takeover is complete, per John Percy in the Telegraph.

According to Hill, "Talisca is already impressed by Wolves," and it seems the Championship side are a genuine threat to Liverpool's chances of signing the Benfica man.

As can be seen below, Talisca is a strong and versatile midfielder—he can also play as a forward—with a lethal left foot:

Reds manager Jurgen Klopp has been linked with a number of young attacking targets to help bolster his front line, but deals for Dinamo Zagreb winger Marko Pjaca and Udinese's Piotr Zielinski both look set to fall through, per Calciomercato.

Talisca could be a decent alternative, as he has plenty of potential and could settle well into Liverpool's front line alongside compatriots Roberto Firmino and Philippe Coutinho.

While Talisca has yet to be capped at senior level for his country, he has represented Brazil at various youth levels.

According to Portuguese football expert Jan Hagen, Liverpool would do well to miss out on him, as he does not have the quality for the Premier League:

He looks to be a talented player, though, and perhaps Klopp believes he can develop Talisca into a midfielder capable of contributing in Liverpool's squad.

However, somewhat surprisingly, the Reds now look to be on the back foot in the race to sign him and may need to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements if the work permit issue cannot be resolved.