Image Credits: Imago Images
There could be a lot of crossover between Liverpool and Manchester United in this summer’s market.
Both clubs are already circling Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton, with the England midfielder emerging as one of the most coveted young players in the Premier League. United have also been credited with interest in two Liverpool academy attackers – Isaac Konde and Vincent Joseph this summer.
UK ONLY
It’s been reported that the Red Devils have already made contact for Konde.
Now, French outlet Foot Mercato report that United are actively preparing an offer for RC Lens powerhouse Mamadou Sangare.
Lens paid €8m to bring him to the Stade Bollaert-Delelis last summer, and the Mali international has more than justified the outlay.
The left-footed midfielder has racked up 29 Ligue 1 appearances last season, contributing three goals and three assists while topping Ligue 1’s tackling charts and ranking inside Europe’s top five for ball recoveries.
His performances helped Lens qualify for the Champions League and challenge PSG for the Ligue 1 title, eventually finishing in second place and six points adrift of Luis Enriuqe’s side.
The Telegraph’s Dominic King previously reported that Liverpool will no doubt be “aware” of Sangare.
According to Foot Mercato, around ten clubs across Europe are tracking Sangare, but United’s interest is currently described as the most concrete, with the Old Trafford hierarchy readying a proposal as they look to reshape their midfield options.
They add that bids are expected to start at €40M but his final sale will likely be much higher than that.
Elliot Anderson’s likely move to Manchester City is only going to push midfield prices even higher across Europe.
If Liverpool are serious about strengthening in the middle of the park, the smart play is to move early, secure their targets now and avoid being dragged into an inflated bidding war after the Anderson deal.