Quincy Charles
Xherdan Shaqiri is expected to attract increased interest from a number of clubs this week, according to Liverpool.
Following his great achievements at this summer’s European Championships, several Italian and Spanish clubs have expressed interest in pulling him away from Anfield.
After making just six starts for the Reds last season, Shaqiri has notified Liverpool authorities of his desire for a new challenge.
Sevilla, Villarreal, Napoli, and Lazio are all said to have approached the forward’s agents to inquire about a move away from Anfield, where he has been for the past three years.
“I told Liverpool, board, I feel ready for a new challenge,” Shaqiri told Italian publication Corriere Dello Sport.
“They accepted my decision and will now consider bids to sell me. Liverpool won’t stop me this summer.
“The important thing at this moment in my career is to be able to play regularly, but that hasn’t always been the case in the last three seasons.
“I’m only 29 years old, I have played in some of the best Leagues in Europe and I would like to continue being a part of them.
“I’m not yet thinking about the end of my career, it’s a future I imagine far away. We will see what destiny has in store for me.
“I have no direct contact; my consultant team deals with the market. They inform me when there are clubs interested, you have to ask them for the names.”
Shaqiri’s deal ends in 2022, but Liverpool has the option to extend it for another year, so they aren’t in any hurry to transfer him for a bargain this summer.
Regarding a possible transfer to Lazio, Shaqiri added: “Igli Tare (sporting director) has been doing an excellent job at Lazio for years.
“If it’s true that he has great respect for me, then I’m honoured.
“I have been following Lazio for a long time, they are a top team. In general, due to my characteristics, I like to play more attacking football and Maurizio Sarri practices it. It would be intriguing.”
