Former Liverpool and Everton boss Rafa Benitez has claimed that Gabri Veiga could remain at Celta Vigo despite interest in the 21-year-old from across Europe.
The ECHO understands Liverpool are looking at Veiga this summer as they continue to rebuild their midfield department following the arrivals of Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton & Hove Albion and Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig.
Dubbed 'the young pearl' of Celta, Veiga finished his campaign with an impressive output of 11 goals and four assists in total that included a brace against Barcelona earlier this month to seal a 2-1 win and avoid La Liga relegation.
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Such form has subsequently seen him linked to several heavyweights including Manchester City, Newcastle United and Paris Saint-Germain to name just a few.
However, Benitez, who was been presented as Celta's new manager on Monday, told Sport that he was planning his side with Veiga in it.
“We are talking about an important player," the 63-year-old explained. "Who comes from the academy, and I would be delighted to have him continue with us.”
“It would be exciting for everyone, and I will try to improve him as much as possible if he continues with us. I like him a lot, he’s a great player and I’m counting on him.”
Veiga has a €40 million release clause, with club president Carlos Mourino claiming he will only permit a move if that figure is met.
"We don't want to sell under any circumstances but they are going to buy [Veiga] from us," admitted Mourino. "We know some of the offers, we wouldn't be able to pay him what other teams do.
"Gabri has Celta's feelings and will always have the doors open but it will depend exclusively on him and what they are offering him is irresistible. He will decide where he wants to go but that club will have to pay the clause.
"Of the top 10 teams in the Premier League, four have asked. For us, it's not for sale. We refer to the clause. We have nothing to negotiate with anyone."
