Julian Ward makes decision over deal for £50m Spanish forward after latest twist

Liverpool added plenty of forward talent in the summer transfer window.

Deals were done for both Victor Munoz and Bradley Barcola.

Munoz, 23, came in from Osasuna for around £34m after the Spain FIFA World Cup winner’s release clause was triggered. Barcola meanwhile came on board for around £123m after the Reds successfully concluded negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain.

And while those two players represent great signings for now and the future the moves left Andoni Iraola short a right winger.

He is having to make do with Cody Gakpo, Rio Ngumoha, Munoz, Barcola, Lewis Koumas and others in the position once occupied by Mohamed Salah.

No moves could successfully be concluded over summer for Yankuba Minteh or Ismaila Sarr - meaning Liverpool are still on the lookout for a right-sided option.

LFC wanted Otorbi at £25m, won't pay £50m

In recent weeks their chase has led them to Valencia - where 19-year-old David Otorbi is catching the eye. The young Spaniard has made a decisive breakthrough for his hometown club this season - enjoying a stellar La Liga rise.

With a release clause in his contract standing at €30m (£25m) this was a deal that sporting director Julian Ward was willing to do according to Tribuna Deportivo.

Nonetheless Los Che have moved to renew their attacking prospect’s contract until 2031 - DOUBLING his release clause to €60m (£50m) in the process.

And according to Fichajes that move - which included a salary increase - has put Liverpool’s chase at an end.

While the 2024/25 Premier League champions were willing to do an opportunistic deal at £25m it would appear as though £50m is a little too rich for their bones - even with a lack of options on the right.

David Otorbi: Situation summary

David Otorbi is a 19-year-old, right-footed winger who primarily operates on Valencia’s right flank. His game centres on pace, direct running and taking defenders on, attacking the outside to deliver crosses and cutbacks.

He has broken into Valencia’s first-team rotation this season, scoring his first senior goal against Racing Santander. However, a thigh injury against Villarreal has interrupted his progress, with Spanish reports anticipating at least six weeks out.

Valencia have moved to secure him until June 2031 by activating an existing extension early. His release clause reportedly doubles from €30million to €60million, significantly strengthening their negotiating position.

Liverpool and Newcastle have been linked, while his agent has confirmed Premier League enquiries. England looks a plausible longer-term destination, but his camp prioritises development at Valencia; an imminent departure is far from assured.