Liverpool suffer new blow with World Cup hero Sofyan Amrabat set to snub transfer in favour of Atletico Madrid move

LIVERPOOL target Sofyan Amrabat wants to join Atletico Madrid, according to reports.

The Moroccan played an integral role during his side's amazing run at the World Cup in Qatar.

With Fiorentina star Amrabat a key cog in the heart of midfield, Morocco became the first African side ever to reach a World Cup semi-final.

His superb performances in the Middle East attracted plenty of interest, with Liverpool said to be keen on recruiting him to bolster their midfield.

According to , however, he has his heart set on Atletico.

A deal will not be easy to complete, however, with Fiorentina likely to demand a big fee.

During the World Cup, Amrabat already appeared keen to play for Atletico, gushing over the qualities of coach Diego Simeone.

He told Spanish paper : "What Simeone does, what he achieved… He coached Atletico de Madrid for many years.

"I like his style of play. He won a lot and I have a lot of respect for him.

"The players on your team are physically strong and aggressive. I like to play that way."

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Amrabat, 26, is under contract with Fiorentina until 2024.

La Viola have made attempts to renew his deal, but face an uphill battle to keep him.

Liverpool's No1 midfield target, however, is England star Jude Bellingham.

But Borussia Dortmund are set to demand upwards of £100million - with Manchester City, Real Madrid and Chelsea all also in the mix.