Liverpool Technical Director Jorg Schmadtke is set to embark on a relentless pursuit of signings this summer to rejuvenate the Merseyside club and propel them back to the forefront for the upcoming 2023/2024 campaign.
One player who has caught the attention of Jurgen Klopp’s side is Khephren Thuram from OGC Nice, as reported by Get French Football News. Sources suggest that a “provisional agreement” has been reached between Thuram and Liverpool, although the French club is hesitant to sell and the 22-year-old midfielder has not yet expressed a desire to leave. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive betting odds from Nextbet.
Securing Thuram’s signature could come at a hefty price, with Nice potentially demanding up to €60m (£52m), making him one of Liverpool’s most expensive midfield signings in history. However, his addition could address the team’s struggles in the previous season.
The departures of James Milner, Naby Keita, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, whose contracts expired this summer, have opened up opportunities for Liverpool to not only strengthen but significantly elevate the quality of their midfield.
Several names have emerged in transfer discussions, with Thuram and Borussia Monchengladbach’s Manu Kone at the top of Schmadtke’s wishlist, as confirmed by Fabrizio Romano. However, recent information from Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sports Germany indicates that a deal for Thuram is currently “very unlikely” as he is not a top transfer target for Liverpool, despite his availability for €30m (£26m).
This development may be influenced by Liverpool’s acquisition of Mac Allister and their pursuit of Thuram, who possesses a similar profile to his compatriot and is arguably the more desirable option based on their respective valuations and performance metrics.
Thuram, earning £14,000 per week at Nice, ranks among the top 6% of midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues for progressive carries, the top 9% for successful take-ons, the top 25% for assist rate, and the top 26% for interceptions per 90 minutes, according to FBref data.
On the other hand, Kone ranks among the top 23% for progressive carries, the top 4% for successful take-ons, the top 25% for tackles, and the top 20% for blocks per 90 minutes.
While Kone is a more grounded midfielder, both players exhibit tenacity and combativeness, with Thuram specifically praised by talent scout Jacek Kulig. Thuram’s progressive approach could breathe new life and potency into Liverpool’s midfield, making him a fantastic addition, as hailed by Nice coach Didier Digard, who also commended his leadership qualities.
Given Liverpool’s ambition to climb up the table next season, securing Thuram’s services would be crucial to their immediate success. He possesses the skills and attributes to inject dynamism and drive into the team, especially following the departure of experienced figures like Milner. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports.
