Liverpool star has 'recommended' a 2025 transfer target as Spurs 'plot move' for midfielder on Man City radar

The Premier League churned out more exciting results over the weekend as Liverpool keep their spot at the top of the table heading into the international break. Manchester City and Arsenal also earned victories as they look to keep the pressure on the title race.

Let’s take a look at some of the latest transfer stories as England’s top flight takes a short break.

Liverpool star ‘recommends’ defender to recruitment team

Liverpool’s Darwin Núñez has reportedly ‘recommended’ a fellow South American star to the club’s recruitment team after being ‘wowed’ by what he’s seen of him so far. According to Football Insider, the Reds and rivals Brighton are both monitoring rising Colombian talent Clarens Culma Mejia, who can play as either a centre-back or left-back.

Talent spotters from both Premier League clubs have been eyeing the Atlético Nacional youngster and he apparently comes highly recommended by Núñez, which has encouraged the Anfield outfit to ‘actively monitor him’.

There is little information out there on Culma, so much so that he doesn’t even have a Transfermarkt profile, but Football Insider describes him as having a ‘growing reputation in South American football’.

The 3AM Verdict: Liverpool have been looking to bolster their backline since last summer but due to the need of new midfielders, it has taken a backseat. It has been widely reported that the Reds will return to the market next year for new centre-backs and left-backs, both of which are positions Culma can cover by himself. If they are able to sign him for a friendly fee, Liverpool could land themselves a promising young talent and the fact he comes recommended by Núñez is hard to ignore.

Spurs ‘plotting move’ for Man City target

Tottenham Hotspur are ‘plotting a move’ to sign Italian midfielder Samuele Ricci and will rival Man City for his signature if they enter talks. According to another Football Insider report, Spurs’ pursuit is increased by working with former managing director Fabio Paratici. The 52-year-old is no longer in his role but still thought to have strong links to the recruitment system he established.

Ricci is also being monitored by City, who will be without Rodri for the remainder of the season after he suffered an ACL injury. Their priority in the next transfer window will surely be to find a back-up but with Spurs showing interest in their target, it could be a challenge.

The 3AM Verdict: Man City are in need of someone to fill Rodri’s shoes and while the idea of joining the Premier League champions will be very attractive, every player must know their role under Pep Guardiola is rarely guaranteed. Ricci plays a key role for Torino so likely won’t want to be demoted to the bench once Rodri returns from injury and retakes his place.