Liverpool news: Dominik Szoboszlai to Real Madrid bombshell as Vinicius Jr. feelings clear

Today's Liverpool news sees a star player linked with a shock move away from the club

Not many of Liverpool's players can say they are having a vintage season by their own lofty standards this year. However, Hungarian superstar Dominik Szoboszlai is one Reds star who can hold his head up high.

While Arne Slot's defending Premier League champions have underwhelmed this season, Szoboszlai has established himself as one of the finest midfielders in Europe with a series of commanding displays - wherever he's been asked to play.

Liverpool's talisman was once again centre stage on Saturday night as the Reds advanced to the FA Cup fifth round after beating Brighton 3-0 at Anfield. It was Szoboszlai's sublime finish, topping off a sleek team move, that put the cherry on top on what was a hugely positive night for Slot.

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However, today's Liverpool news sees the Reds rocked by claims that Szoboszlai dreams of a move to European rivals Real Madrid. Comments from the Hungarian's national team coach and Madrid icon Vinicius Jr. have done little to dampen speculation, Mirror Football takes a closer look.

Vinicius Jr. makes claim

Madrid star Vinicius Jr. has said he speaks to Szoboszlai "a lot" - naming the Hungarian as one of a number of players who he is friends with. The Brazilian's quotes will ramp up speculation that the dynamic midfielder could have his head turned by Los Blancos in the near future.

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"I talk a lot with Szoboszlai," the 25-year-old Brazil forward, told the YouTuber Ibai. He listed a series of other names in the game as he reeled off those he's closest with.

"We met when we were younger. [Lucas] Paqueta is my best friend in football. Raphinha in Barcelona, Savinho, Reinier in Brazil, who’s played here too. We Brazilians are almost always together off the field.

"But from other teams who aren’t Brazilian, Reece James, I’m very good friends with him. Rafael Leao, I have quite a few friends outside."

Szoboszlai joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig for £60 million back in 2023 and he is under contract at Liverpool until 2028. He recently confirmed that talks had been held regarding a contract extension at Anfield.

Hungarian coach comments

With the comments from Vinicius Jr. no doubt sounding alarm bells, Hungary national team boss Marco Rossi has positively poured petrol on the rumours linking Szoboszlai with Madrid.

Speaking to Rossi Qatari outlet Winwin, he claimed that moving to the Spanish capital is a "dream" for the player. He said: " Dominic is currently one of the best players in the ranks of Liverpool and the Premier League, thanks to his outstanding form, where he has developed a lot and clearly.

"He is currently one of the best players in Europe and the world, and it is natural that there are clubs that will be interested in signing him. From what I have heard and what I know, and because of the very good and direct relationship I have had with Dominic since he started playing football as a child, Real Madrid was his dream.

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"I absolutely don't rule out the possibility of him staying at Liverpool and renewing his contract there, especially because he's highly valued within the club. He's a very important player for Liverpool. And Liverpool is one of the biggest clubs in the world."

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