Young Portugal defender flattered by Liverpool interest

Rafa Soares has admitted that he is flattered by reports linking him with a move to Premier League giants Liverpool. 

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is in the market for a new left-back this summer, yet has so far struggled in his pursuit of both Ryan Sessegnon and Andrew Robertson. 

Liverpool have since supposedly turned their attention to Soares, who impressed for Rio Ave on loan from FC Porto last season. 

And the 22-year-old defender, while honoured to be have been linked with a move to Anfield, insists he is focused on his FC Porto career and in particular working under newly-appointed head coach Sergio Conceicao. 

"I know I've been followed by English clubs especially after our campaign," Soares told ESPN via Omnisport. 

"Liverpool are a great club and to be linked is an enormous honour for me. 

"I followed Liverpool from a young age and I shiver every time I listen to 'You'll Never Walk Alone,' it's unique. Liverpool are famous and popular in Portugal where people value the history of a club. 

"I'm naturally flattered, but I'm a Porto player and focused on succeeding here. 

"My main goal is to establish myself and get first-team football. I feel ready and confident that after my last season I will be given a chance. 

"I keep my feet on the ground and focus on climbing my way up one step at a time. Fans support and trust me to become a symbol of the club, as I have been here for over 10 years and feel Porto in my bones. 

"In 2015-16, it was rumoured Conceicao wanted me to join him in Vitoria Guimaraes -- where he was coach at the time -- which may mean he trusts and believes in me."