Liverpool Have Joined the Race to Sign 23-year-old Serie A Star – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Eyes on Nicolo Rovella: A Calculated Move Amid Midfield Reshuffle

Liverpool’s search for midfield reinforcements continues, and this time the gaze is firmly fixed on Italy. As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Reds have made initial enquiries about Nicolo Rovella, the 23-year-old Juventus midfielder currently on loan at Lazio.

The report outlines that Rovella, a recent debutant for the Italian national team, has emerged as a potential target for Arne Slot’s evolving squad. With Jurgen Klopp’s chapter at Anfield now closed, Slot’s reign is beginning to shape itself through strategic signings and a renewed tactical identity.

“Liverpool have made enquiries for the 23-year-old defensive midfielder,” notes La Gazzetta dello Sport, pointing to Liverpool’s growing intent to secure a new ball-playing No. 6. While Ryan Gravenberch has performed admirably in that role, Slot is believed to be keen on adding further depth and composure in that area of the pitch.

Opportunity Amid Juventus Financial Uncertainty

What makes Rovella particularly interesting to Liverpool is not just his playing profile but the financial scenario surrounding him. According to the same report, Juventus are facing economic pressure and might be forced to sell Rovella immediately after Lazio make his loan permanent—“if they fail to secure Champions League qualification.”

That potential availability could see Liverpool step in quickly, especially as they look to avoid last summer’s late scramble for a holding midfielder. The situation has shades of the Reds’ opportunistic swoop for Federico Chiesa last year, where swift and decisive action brought in quality at value.

Photo: IMAGO

There is, however, competition. The same Gazzetta dello Sport report claims that Arsenal are also interested in Rovella. The North London club are known for their analytical approach to recruitment and could see Rovella as a long-term option alongside Declan Rice.

Why Rovella Could Fit Slot’s System

Slot’s philosophy demands intelligent midfielders who are comfortable receiving under pressure, can progress the ball vertically, and break up opposition attacks. Rovella, who made his Italy debut in November, ticks many of those boxes.

He has been praised for his calmness in possession and ability to shield the back line—both qualities Liverpool need if they are to fully control games domestically and in Europe. With Wataru Endo not a long-term solution and Alexis Mac Allister arguably more effective further forward, Rovella could provide that much-needed balance.

“He will also allow the creative players to operate with more freedom,” the report states, underlining Rovella’s role as a facilitator rather than a headline grabber.

Strategy over Sensation in Liverpool’s Summer

What’s clear is that Liverpool’s recruitment team is once again aiming for precision over popularity. While links to big names like Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike dominate social media, targets like Rovella show a return to the kind of efficient market work that has underpinned the club’s best windows in recent years.

At 23, Rovella offers both short-term contribution and long-term upside—exactly the kind of profile Liverpool often seeks out. It may not be the glamorous signing fans dream of, but it’s potentially a vital cog in Slot’s red machine.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a fan’s point of view, this link to Nicolo Rovella feels like one of those “under-the-radar” moves that ends up looking incredibly smart in hindsight. While he might not have the flair or name recognition of a marquee signing, there’s plenty to like about this rumour.

For starters, Rovella would be a practical signing. The midfield remains an area where we need control and discipline—two things that often went missing in the chaos of last season. Gravenberch has shown glimpses in the No. 6 role, but asking him to carry the entire defensive midfield burden seems short-sighted. Rovella would bring a calm presence, and that alone could unlock more from Trent Alexander-Arnold when he drifts into midfield, or let Mac Allister push up without worrying so much about what’s behind him.

Then there’s the Juventus angle. If they’re genuinely in a bind and forced to sell after Lazio make the move permanent, Liverpool could pull off a steal—something we’ve become quite good at over the years.

This isn’t one to shout about from the rooftops just yet, but it has all the hallmarks of a very “Liverpool” signing. Not flashy, but very functional. Just how we like it.