Liverpool’s move for Ibrahim Mbaye from Paris Saint-Germain is progressing quickly, according to RCM Sports,
The Reds are now expected to accelerate negotiations with PSG as they look to secure a deal for the 18-year-old Senegal international this summer.
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Bayer Leverkusen had previously been linked with Mbaye, but they are not expected to pursue a move for the Parisian academy graduate.
The Reds have spent much of this summer chasing PSG wingers Bradley Barcola and Mbaye.
Both players sat out PSG’s Trophee des Champions defeat to Lens on Sunday, a decision that fuelled speculation over their futures in the French capital.
According to RMC Sport journalist Fabrice Hawkins, that speculation has now translated into concrete progress for Liverpool.
Hawkins reported that Liverpool have reached an agreement with Ibrahim Mbaye over personal terms, with the two parties settling on the financial details of a five-year contract.
The 18-year-old has made his decision, according to the report, and does not wish to pursue interest from Bayer Leverkusen.
RMC Sport added that Leverkusen, who had been tracking Mbaye for much of the summer, are no longer expected to pursue a deal for the Senegal international.
The Bundesliga club’s interest had been described as one of the more serious alternatives to Liverpool, alongside links to Borussia Dortmund.
Personal terms are separate from a transfer agreement.
Liverpool must still negotiate a fee with PSG, who value Mbaye at a figure reported to be between €40 million and €50 million, though some outlets suggest that valuation has since dropped closer to £30 million.
Hawkins reported that Liverpool will now look to accelerate those discussions.
Despite the claims from the French media, The Athletic has reported that senior figures at the club describe their interest in Mbaye as exploratory rather than advanced, a characterisation at odds with RMC Sport’s account of a completed personal-terms agreement.
Mbaye made 28 senior appearances for PSG last season, operating mainly on the right but capable of playing across the forward line. He has been capped 15 times by Senegal.
Liverpool have prioritised width this summer following Mohamed Salah’s departure.