Atletico Madrid preparing to rival Liverpool for Rodrigo De Paul?

Atletico Madrid could reportedly battle Liverpool for the signature of Udinese midfielder Rodrigo De Paul during this summer's transfer window.

The 26-year-old has been in impressive form for his Italian club during the 2020-21 campaign, scoring nine goals and registering 11 assists in 36 appearances in all competitions.

A recent report claimed that Liverpool had made contact with De Paul's agent to discuss the possibility of a move to Anfield in the upcoming market.

However, according to Calciomercato, Atletico are also firmly in the race for the Argentina international amid suggestions that he could be available for a fee in the region of €40m (£34m).

AC Milan, Juventus and Napoli have also previously been credited with an interest in the midfielder, who has nine goals and 10 assists in 34 Serie A outings this term.

The South American has a contract at Stadio Friuli until June 2024.