Liverpool news: Dominik Szoboszlai 'dreams' of Real Madrid transfer as Vinicius Jr. fuels fire

Dominik Szoboszlai has been in brilliant form despite Liverpool's woes(Image: Liverpool FC, Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Few of Liverpool's squad can claim they're enjoying a stellar campaign by their own high standards this term. Yet Hungarian star Dominik Szoboszlai stands as one Reds player who can feel proud of his contributions.

Whilst Arne Slot's reigning Premier League champions have disappointed this season, Szoboszlai has cemented his reputation as one of Europe's top midfielders through a string of dominant performances - regardless of his positioning on the pitch. Liverpool's talisman was once more the focal point on Saturday evening as the Reds progressed to the FA Cup fifth round following their 3-0 triumph over Brighton at Anfield.

Nevertheless, today's Liverpool news sees the Reds shaken by reports that Szoboszlai harbours ambitions of joining European giants Real Madrid. Remarks from the Hungarian's international manager and Madrid star Vinicius Jr. have only fuelled the rumours, as the Daily Star Sport examines the situation more closely.

Vinicius Jr has revealed his friendship with Dominik Szoboszlai(Image: Denis Doyle, Getty Images)

JOIN US ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page

Real Madrid sensation Vinicius Jr. has revealed he maintains regular contact with Szoboszlai, describing the Hungarian as amongst his circle of close friends. The Brazilian's remarks are likely to fuel fresh speculation that the versatile midfielder could be tempted by a switch to the Bernabeu.

"I talk a lot with Szoboszlai," the 25-year-old Brazil international revealed to YouTuber Ibai. He proceeded to rattle off several other names as he outlined his closest relationships in football.

"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 made the switch to Liverpool from RB Leipzig for £60 million in 2023 and remains tied to Anfield until 2028. He has recently acknowledged that discussions have taken place over extending his stay on Merseyside.

The Hungarian's international manager has been speaking about his future(Image: Lewis Storey, Getty Images)

Ensure our latest sport headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as a Preferred Source in your Google search settings.

Following Vinicius Jr.'s revelations that will undoubtedly set off warning signals, Hungary national team manager Marco Rossi has essentially added fuel to the fire regarding speculation linking Szoboszlai with Madrid.

Speaking to Qatari outlet Winwin, he suggested that a move to the Spanish capital is a "dream" for the player. He stated: "Dominik 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 Dominik since he started playing football as a child, Real Madrid was his dream.

"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."