Liverpool are set to make a move for 17 year-old Mendes to fend off interest from their bitter rivals Manchester United who had shown interest when negotiating the Bruno Fernandes deal in January.


Despite not yet making a senior appearance for Sporting, the left-back is a highly-rated prospect and the Red Devils would have to pay in excess of €12 million for his signature. Mendes is out of contract in 2021 and has turned down an offer of a new two-year deal.


Just down the road at Goodison Park there is speculation that Everton could sign Sporting midfielder Wendel. The Toffees have had an initial offer of €15 million rejected with Sporting holding out for at least €20 million for the 22 year-old Brazilian who is also attracting attention from Napoli, Florentina (Italy) and Nice (France). CW