Liverpool have allegedly made “contacts” over a possible deal for Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, according to reports in France.
The 22-year-old has gained a stellar reputation across Europe for his displays in Ligue 1. Operating as a defensive midfielder, Tchouameni signed for Monaco from Bordeaux in January 2020 and has since become an important part of the France squad.
The young midfielder has been consistently linked with a move away ahead of the summer transfer window, with Liverpool among several clubs touted to seal his signature. However, reports in France have suggested that the Reds have taken a further step in their efforts to sign Tchouameni.
READ MORE: Jurgen Klopp gives Roberto Firmino injury update after Liverpool absence
HAVE YOUR SAY: Pick your Liverpool team ahead of Champions League semi-final vs Villarreal
Santi Aouna of Foot Mercato has claimed that “contacts have already taken place” between Liverpool and the player’s representatives over a potential transfer. Jurgen Klopp is said to have made Tchouameni “one of his priorities” for the summer in an attempt to bolster the club’s midfield department.
With Tchouameni’s contract currently set to run until 2024, it is suggested that Monaco value their prize asset at “well above” £42m. Though Liverpool will supposedly face competition form both Real Madrid and PSG for the France international.
According to the report, Real Madrid were “about to complete” a deal for Tchouameni, who the Spanish giants are hoping could form a successful partnership with fellow French starlet Eduardo Camavinga. However, it is now believed that the transfer saga is “far from over” with Liverpool able to match Real Madrid’s ambitions and outbid the club financially.
While Liverpool have a range of centre-midfield options within their squad, the report from Foot Mercato states that the 22-year-old is seen as a younger alternative to both Jordan Henderson and James Milner. Having previously signed Fabinho from Monaco in 2018, Liverpool supporters would hope any potential deal for Tchouameni would be as successful as the Brazilian’s time on Merseyside .
Speaking to Monaco’s official club website earlier this month, Tchouameni gave little indication that he was looking elsewhere. “AS Monaco are a very big French club with a wonderful history! Very great players have played here,” he said.
“When I was at Bordeaux and heard of the Club’s interest in me, I did not hesitate for a second to come here to the Principality. I knew it could help me progress, with top facilities, and being a top project for young players. So today I am very happy to be part of this great club.”
