Liverpool have entered the race to sign Bayer Leverkusen striker Iker Bravo this summer, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Long-term successor?

Roberto Firmino is set to leave Anfield upon the expiration of his contract at the end of the season so the Reds could be looking to recruit a potential long-term successor.

The 18-year-old Bravo is currently on a season-long loan at Real Madrid Castilla, who do have the option to buy him, but should they not take up this opportunity, Jurgen Klopp is waiting to bring him to the Premier League.

The Latest: Liverpool eyeing Bravo

According to Spanish reports (via CaughtOffside), Liverpool, alongside Newcastle, are both ‘keen on signing’ Bravo ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.

The Merseyside outfit are ‘interested’ in completing a deal, and it’s reported that he ‘could be open to joining’ should a permanent move to Madrid fail to materialise.

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The Verdict: Bags of potential

Liverpool are clearly planning for the future with the likes of Stefan Bajcetic being introduced into the first team fold and Bravo has the potential to do the same should he put pen to paper.

The Levrkusen starlet has posted 21 goal contributions (15 goals and six assists) in 41 appearances since the start of his career, highlighting how prolific he can be in the final third.

The teenage talent would also provide flexibility having previously operated on the left wing and as a second striker alongside his natural centre-forward position, perhaps making him the ideal long-term successor to Firmino, competing for minutes with Cody Gakpo. In fact, in five appearances this season as a 'false nine', the teenager has a very impressive four direct goal involvements.

Bravo has been dubbed a ‘difference-maker’ by talent scout Jacek Kulig and he would be an extremely exciting acquisition for the Reds in years to come.