Benfica boss Nelson Verissimo has previously lauded Liverpool target Darwin Nunez and tipped him for 'growth'.
Jurgen Klopp's side have emerged as favourites to land the 22-year-old Uruguayan as they look to move early for the striker. Their pursuit comes after Sadio Mane attracted interest for German giants Bayern Munich.
The Liverpool Echo understands Nunez has become the Reds' chief target this summer, As Águias have priced the former Almeria forward at €100m (around £85m), but they are willing to consider an offer of £68.4m with £17.7m in add-ons. However, the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders are waiting for guarantees over the Senegal international's future before progressing with the move.
STATE OF PLAY: Darwin Nunez wait, Sadio Mane stance, Takumi Minamino interest
READ MORE: Sadio Mane key to £85m Darwin Nunez transfer as Liverpool wait on Bayern Munich move
Manchester United and Arsenal have also been previously linked with the Primeira Liga top goalscorer. The Red Devils were reportedly looking to hijack their East Lancs rivals' attempts to land the forward, as they face attacking problems of their own.
Liverpool got to witness the attacker's qualities first hand as he scored in both of their Champions League meetings, prompting praise from the Reds boss himself. Prior to the conclusion of the season for the 37-time Portuguese champions, head coach Verissimo hailed the talent of the promising talisman.
"He is a young player with a lot of potential, it is natural that given what has been his growth throughout this season and also a lot as a result of the performance he has had in the Champions League games, it is natural that he arouses the interest of the big European clubs," he said in April via Goal.
''In what is my day-to-day with the player, in what is given to us to observe in training and in the games, naturally, we are looking at a top player and all the top players arouse the interest of the big European clubs. Darwin is on that list, obviously."
