Liverpool are reportedly plotting a cut-price bid for long-term target Khephren Thuram, with Juventus lowering their £43m asking price.
It has become increasingly clear that Liverpool’s recruitment team will need to deliver at least one high-caliber central midfielder before the summer transfer window slams shut. The primary objective is finding a profile capable of providing genuine competition and cover for Ryan Gravenberch in the deep-lying number six role.
While the Dutchman has proven himself to be a superb operator when on top form, it shouldn’t be forgotten that he traditionally likes to play further forward. Relying on him to anchor the midfield week in, week out carries immense risk, particularly given the physical toll of the position and the heightened potential for injuries if his current minutes aren’t managed carefully.
The urgency behind the scenes could skyrocket depending on outgoings. Curtis Jones potential departure would instantly increase their need for midfield reinforcements, while Alexis Mac Allister has also found his name linked with an exit in recent weeks.
There is a clear appreciation for top-tier talent Liverpool certainly showed interest in Mateus Fernandes earlier in the window—but senior figures at Anfield were simply not willing to pay the huge £85million fee required to sign him, which ultimately resulted in a move to Tottenham Hotspur instead.
Attention had heavily turned toward Crystal Palace standout Adam Wharton. Decision-makers on Merseyside have been thoroughly impressed by Wharton’s development into a top Premier League midfielder in recent seasons. Indeed, it was widely claimed on June 19 that the Englishman is viewed as a prime candidate to replace Jones at Anfield.
However, a significant shift in direction appears to have taken place. It has been revealed by Football Insider that Andoni Iraola would prefer to sign ‘other targets’ for Liverpool as he ‘does not view Wharton as a priority.’
Having previously been described as the club ‘most keen’ to land Wharton, that interest has noticeably faded in recent weeks. As a direct result, those at Selhurst Park are said to be ‘growing increasingly confident’ that they can keep the 22-year-old in their squad for the upcoming campaign.
With the Wharton deal looking unlikely, alternative options are being actively explored. The club’s dynamic shortlist includes the likes of Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller and Mainz midfielder Kaishu Sano, but it is Juventus powerhouse Khephren Thuram who is generating the most intrigue.
Thuram appears to be the option Liverpool chiefs are leaning towards. As per Italian newspaper Tuttosport, Liverpool have joined Manchester United and Nottingham Forest in ‘expressing interest’ in the Frenchman.
Reports indicate that ‘work is under way’ at Juve to sell Thuram this summer as the Italian giants look to seriously bolster their financial position. It is an opportunity Liverpool are heavily considering. While Thuram was previously viewed as ‘unsellable’ by the Bianconeri, the landscape in Turin has entirely changed.
The financial parameters of the deal are already taking shape. Juventus are understood to want €50m (£43m) to sell Thuram, whereas Liverpool, Manchester United, and Nottingham Forest are all reportedly plotting cheaper opening bids.
Liverpool are known long-term admirers of the 25-year-old. Rumors circulated as early as March that the Reds could stun United with an opening €45m (£39m) offer, and on June 11, Liverpool officially made an ‘enquiry’ to kickstart a potential deal.
Whether Thuram becomes the man to solve the midfield puzzle remains to be seen, but the wheels are undeniably turning at Anfield.