After confirming the arrival of Alexis Mac Allister, the anticipation for Liverpool’s next signing is growing. However, it is “unlikely” to be Manu Kone, according to a reliable reporter. The 22-year-old midfielder has been name-checked with increasing frequency in the last few weeks alongside OGC Nice’s Khephren Thuram. Kone would represent a sensible investment with claims he could be available for around £35 million. Football Insider’s David Lynch reported earlier in the week that the club have been in touch with the young Frenchman’s representatives in view of a possible transfer.
Reliable German reporter Florian Plettenberg has stated that a transfer for Kone is “very unlikely” and that he is currently not a “hot” target. Plettenberg goes on to say he is still “a top candidate for sale” for Borussia Monchengladbach in this window, but seemingly not for Liverpool. There had been suggestions that there was a clear pathway to Kone with Liverpool’s new sporting director Jorg Schmadtke having seen his son, Nils, take the same role at Gladbach.
It appears that focus has shifted to prioritising a move for Khephren Thuram or Gabri Veiga. Both have been subject to growing reports stemming from Liverpool’s interest and with Thuram and Veiga to represent France and Spain respectively in the U21 Euros this summer, it would be Liverpool’s preference to get deals done as early as possible. Hopefully the next midfield announcement is not too far away!